Vanessa Renee Harper Johnson

Ms. Vanessa Renee Harper-Johnson was born December 22, 1964, to Willie Epherson and the late Betty Young Harper in Crystal Springs, MS. At an early age, Vanessa accepted Christ and was baptized at Brushy Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Georgetown, MS. In 1982, she graduated from Crystal Springs High School. Shorty thereafter, she relocated to Chicago, IL, where she worked at KFC. During her years to Chicago, she was befriended by several people who she still regarded as friends.

After residing in Chicago for many years, Vanessa relocated back to Mississippi. Upon her return, she became a member of New Zion United Methodist Church in Crystal Springs. In 1990, Vanessa married the late Vince Johnson. Later, she would become employed with Sanderson Farms, Inc. until her early retirement. During her retirement, she was able to assist with the rearing of and caring for her grandchildren. Also, she was able to enjoy life through travel. Having a "green thumb" she loved gardening and plants. Additionally, Vanessa had a love for 'Angel Numbers' and unique trees. She would often share the images of the ones that she had captured or found.

On Sunday, January 12, 2025, at home in Clinton, MS. Vanessa departed her earthly life.  Her beautiful smile, infectious laugh and bubbly personality will be sorely missed by all who loved and knew her!

To cherish her memory and to carry forth her legacy, Vanessa leaves her three children: Brian Harper of Marietta, GA; Corey (Chicerah) Harper of Jackson, MS; and Arionna Johnson of Clinton, MS; her six grandchildren: Elijah Harper, Christian Jones, Yauri Harper, Carley Harper, Camden Johnson and Caleb Harper; her six siblings: Brenda (Charles) Williams of Chicago, IL; Marcus Harper of Crystal Springs, MS; Sheila Harper of Simpsonville, SC; Mavis(Melvin) Benson of Clinton, MS; Mary Adams of Lawrenceville, GA and Michael Harper of Crystal Springs, MS and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and classmates