Obituary for Vanessa Elaine McRae

December 4, 1961 – August 2, 2025

Vanessa Elaine McRae, affectionately known as "Nessy," was born on December 4, 1961, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to the late Angus McRae and Elenor Wade McRae. She peacefully entered eternal rest on August 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories.

Vanessa was raised in the Easton community and attended Parkland High School, later earning her GED—a reflection of her determination and perseverance. She worked many years at Family Sweets, where she was admired for her cheerful smile and kind heart, until her health began to decline.

In 2012, Vanessa became a faithful member of True Temple Outreach Ministry, where she served diligently on the Missionary Board and sang joyfully with the 5th Sunday Choir. She loved attending Bible study and fellowshipping with her sisters in Christ. Her spiritual walk and commitment to ministry were evident in all that she did.

A devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Vanessa found her greatest joy in the presence of those she loved. She was known not only for her warmth and hospitality, but also for her strictness—a no-nonsense spirit that came from a place of deep love and strong values. Whether offering a hug or giving a firm word, she always spoke the truth in love. Her sharp humor, faithful heart, and guiding hand will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Vanessa was preceded in death by her cherished brothers, James Otis McRae and Gilbert Raymond McRae; her loving sister, Queen Elizabeth McCummings; and her beloved daughter, Lakeysha Lashone McRae.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory:  her daughter, Vivian McRae Roberts (Jarell Roberts); her son, Dewayne Omar McRae; two grandchildren, Cha'Niece Omariona McRae-Cowan and Dejuan Omar Roberts; one sister, Virginia Lee Martin, all of Winston-Salem, NC;  one uncle, Ernest Jerome Wade of Bronx, NY; and her devoted nephew, Gilbert McRae, Jr. She also leaves a special companion, Craig Young; her dear sister in Christ and friend, Robin Fryer; and a host of  other relatives and friends who will miss her deeply.

Special thanks to her loving caregivers: Antionetta Richardson, Tamika O'Neil, Becca Bales, Jackie Hairston, and Shenise Wilson Glenn, whose compassion and care brought comfort during Vanessa's final season.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, August 8, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm Saturday, August 9, 2025 at True Temple Outreach Ministry, 1415 S. Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27127. The family visitation will be held from 12:30pm until 1:00pm on Saturday at the Church. Interment will be held Monday, August 11, 2025 in Piedmont Memorial Gardens.