Vanessa Harris passed away on May 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and devotion. A dedicated teacher, Vanessa poured her heart into her students and was known for her unwavering passion for the growth and happiness of every child she taught.
Above all, Vanessa was deeply family-oriented, finding her greatest strength and joy in the bonds she shared with those she held dear. Whether she was leading a classroom or lost in the rhythm of the music she loved, her spirit was defined by grace and a vibrant energy. Her warmth, her dance, and her dedication to her family will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026 Families First Funeral Care & Cremation Center, 1328 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, Georgia 31405.
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Diane Aitkens
I am deeply sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to each of you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the love and memories shared, and strength in one another. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers. ❤️love you Vanessa you will surely be missed
karen Walker
My heart is truly saddened by your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this painful time. May God give you strength and comfort.
Sharleen Givans (sister)
To my Baby Sister aka my Boom Boom, since you left us a part of my heart left with you. I miss our daily talks, your love and your beautiful spirit. You will always be my little sister and I will carry you with me always.
Nichole callender
My deepest condolences to the family especially my aunt .We will miss ur bubbly personality my cousin n ur videos I learnt alot of patience from seeing u make learning fun with my own kids teaching rest easy butterfly queen vanessa
Michael Reid
To My Aunty Vanessa you were always smiling and having a good time I still remember when you danced and just warm every body’s heart. Rest easy with eternal peace.
Joan McInnis
I know you will not see this but your spirit lives on you were a trooper when I see your frequent updates on your illness I always wonder how you do it no sad look always smiling you were an inspiration rest well cuz see you in the morning stay strong family
Veronica Francis
I am heartbroken that Vanessa has gone so soon.
She was an excellent teacher. A very skilled and knowledgeable Early Years teacher. I am saddened that she was denied the opportunity to extend her craft to many more children.
Vanessa was pure love. Very quite and unreserved. She will be surely missed. On behalf of my family and the St. Joseph’s Teachers College Fratetnity, I extend sincere gratitude to Mrs Harris and Family. I am so saddened by her loss. I trust God to comfort the family through this difficult period.
Phillipa Hogarth
I want to take this time to send my love and prayers to the family and friends. Vanessa was truly a sweetheart! We shared so many good memories from high school days which always made me smile. The dancing and laughing constantly was our thing! I will never forget you ❤️ Rest well my sweets!
Sam
I have no words….i am still numb by you gone in flesh. The first day we met we’ve been friends. My best friend , my big sister. You have been my strength, sound advice to me and my kids. I needed you every step of the way. Your journey has been nothing short of resilience and faith. You’ve showed up everyday with your passion for your students and loved ones. My condolences go out to your family. You loved them dearly and even brought me to love and appreciate mine the same. I know you are watching over us and I thank God you are finally at peace and the time I had shared with you both near and far. I love you always my butterfly.
Pauline Lafayette
My deepest condolences on the passing of our dear batch mate Vanessa . One thing I will always remember about her was how much she loved butterflies. To her, they represented beauty, hope, joy — and in many ways, that reflected the beautiful spirit she carried throughout her life. Though she is gone from our sight, her memory will continue to flutter gently in our hearts, just like the butterflies she loved so dearly. Rest peacefully, beautiful soul. You will never be forgotten.🦋🦋🌹🌹
Pauline Lafayette
Michelle Ahjahorie-Lawrence
I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Vanessa a beautiful soul I was so privileged to have been able to know. She loved to dance and she loved dancing so much because she felt as free as the butterflies she lived so dearly. May the memories we have of her be cherished for many lifetimes
Michelle Wright-Barrett
My sincere condolences to the family of a beautiful soul who has gone home to rest . May her memories last forever in our hearts.
Claudia Uter
It is with a heavy heart that I write this condolence. Words cannot express how deeply saddened we are of your passing.
Family and friends , on behalf of myself and my family, please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Vanessa. She was an incredible colleague and an even better friend. Her warmth, talent, and bright spirit brought so much joy to our workplace every single day. We will miss her immensely, and our thoughts are with you during this heartbreaking time.
Sakara Dewdney
My deepest condolences to to the family and friends of Vanessa Harris 😢 I pray that God continues to strengthen you guys in this time of mourning Rest well my queen 🦋💜 🪽 😇
Brianna simon
There’s not enough words that can describe this loss. You were taken too soon not only from us ur family , but from your children at school as well. But I know you’re at peace and with us spiritually. Although you may be gone physically, the memories and love will remain ❤️🩹.
Ingrid Pinnock
It is with a heavy heart that I write my condolences to you Vanessa. You are a silent worshipper and a calm individual who loves butterflies. Butterflies reminds me of calmness. I will miss your messages each morning telling me to open the gate for you. You are missing in person but your memories live on. Sleep and take your rest my friend and colleague.
The White Family
Harris Family,
We send our deepest condolences to your entire family. In time, please take comfort in knowing that we will see Vanessa again, for Jesus said, “…all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out..” (John 5:28,29). Until that time, may your memories bring you peace and hope.
Sadie
Sharleen and Family, my heart is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Venessa. Please accept my sincerest condolences during this incredibly difficult time.
May you find comfort in the precious memories you shared, and may God surround you with His love, strength, and peace in the days ahead. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Sophia Harris-Henry
You said you wanted to retire in a couple years. I said “Gurllll aren’t you too young to retire lol”?. We jumped on a call and talked about how you could impact the lives of others and impact meaningful change. You never once complained. You never murmured. You only wanted to share and care for others. You loved your kids (students). You loved your family. You loved life. You fought like a lion and graced earth like a butterfly.
But God knew best. He always knows best. He said “my beautiful butterfly – your job on earth is done. Youve given your all. Come … rest awhile. It’s time. Retire in Heaven.
Shanette Graham
Our friendship was one that lasted throughout life’s transitions even as we grew older. I will always remember your love for music, the smile you wore no matter what, the love you had for people, and the fight you put up so valiantly. But, with your passing, I’m reminded that even God’s strongest soldiers have to rest. May your beautiful spirit live on, rest in peace my neighbour💜
My most sincere condolences to the family.
Laceta Cooper
Rest in eternal peace my beautiful cuz. You will be missed by all, keep flying like a butterfly 🦋🦋 which you dearly loved.
Andrea Hunter
Condolences from the Hunter Family Bill Andrea and Jean Paul.
We grieve with you remembering all the great times we share.
May the God of all comfort .comfort .all as a family.
He is Sovereign and He does all tjings well.we are praying for you.
Andrew Bellamy
Condolences to the Harris Family & close friends 🕊️. Vanessa was a such gentle soul with a Big heart and only God knows why he took her home. Vanessa’s passing is unjustifiable, but the only comfort is knowing that Vanessa is with the Lord and I pray that God will provide solace to each Family Member & close Friend with each passing day.
Shanice Evelyn
Vanessa was like a butterfly in every stage of life— each season revealing a different kind of beauty.
As a caterpillar, she moved through life with quiet determination, learning, growing, and carrying within her a heart already full of kindness and love. She nurtured those around her with warmth that made people feel safe, seen, and valued.
In her cocoon, she became a woman of depth — her mind wise, thoughtful, and graceful. Through life’s trials and triumphs, her soul grew stronger, gentler, and more radiant. Even in difficult moments, she carried herself with courage and compassion, becoming a source of comfort to so many.
Then she emerged like a butterfly — beautiful in spirit, body, mind, and soul. Her presence brought light wherever she went. She loved deeply, gave selflessly, and left lasting impressions on every heart fortunate enough to know her.
Knowing she isn’t here in flesh is difficult to accept and it leaves an ache that words cannot fully heal. The loss feels heavy and numbing because her love was so genuine and her presence so meaningful.
Just as a butterfly never truly disappears from the garden it once touched, her spirit will continue to surround those she loved.
May we find solace in knowing that she is always watching over us — a gentle presence in quiet moments, a whisper of strength during hard days, and a beautiful reminder that love never truly leaves us. Her wings may have carried her beyond our sight, but her memory, her love, and the beauty of her soul will remain forever.
Forever our dancing Mariposa 🦋💜 WE LOVE YOU and will never forget you.
Neisha Sanchez
Some people come into your life and leave footprints on your heart that time could never erase. Vanessa was that person to us.
She was more than a friend, sister, teacher, and confidant she was family. To my children, she was Auntie, always present, always loving, and always involved in every part of their lives. She gave so much love and support to her autistic nephew, especially during moments when our world felt like it was falling apart. She gave us hope when we needed it most.
She also shared a beautiful bond with her niece through fashion, dancing, laughter, and unforgettable memories they created together.
Vanessa never had to speak loudly to be heard. In her calm and gentle voice, she carried a strength that naturally commanded respect. Her love, kindness, and beautiful spirit will live in our hearts forever.
Sleep on, our sweet butterfly, Vanessa.
Shelice Thomas
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4
I send my condolences to her family at this time, know it’s hard to say goodbye to such a beautiful soul. She was so loving, sweet, caring and a genuine kind hearted person. Everyone who had ever met Nessa is truly hurting now because she has left an imprint on our hearts.
Nessa was my rock, my best friend if I needed advice on anything she would be one of the first people I called. Nessa I love you and I will truly miss you, you hold a very special place in Avery’s and I heart. Sleep well my friend, I hope heaven has a dance studio so you can continue dance!!
Decoda Buckley
My deepest condolences to Vanessa’s family. It was truly a pleasure to know her, and my heart is heavy to see her go. Praying comfort, strength, and peace over each of you during this time. Much love and respect. 💜💜💜💜
“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (KJV)
Kerry-Ann Miller
💜Nessa💜, you were my little sister from another mother and father. You were the perfect sibling, never experienced the sibling rivalry only the joys and love of a sibling. We had so much in common but the most unique and meaningful commonality was that both our sisters nicknamed us Boom Boom 🥰 It was such a blessing being a part of your life. You’re truly our majestic Butterfly 🦋; enchanting us with your amazing personality, your gracefulness, your compassion, your gorgeousness ☺️ and your love ❤️ Always smiling and cheerful you made your presence contagious and envious at the same time. Tristan remembered you as his super fun summer teacher and I wish Kelsey got to meet you.
They say Butterflies are nature’s angels, but you will always be OUR Butterfly 🦋 sent from Heaven💜
Nicole Brown-McBean
I am so sorry for your loss and I pray for the Lord’s comfort during this time.
Ann Dawkins
Psalms 1:3 And He shall be like a tree that planted by the rivers of water that brings forth its fruit in it’s season and whatever he does shall prosper. May The Lord Jesus continue to strengthen, Vanessa Mom, her Husband, and the rest of the family blessings 🙌 🙏 ❤️.
Sasha
My deepest condolences to you and everyone who loved Vanessa. I’m holding you all close in my heart and praying you find comfort, peace, and strength as you get through this painful time.
Kristal Miller
My sincere condolences go out to Vanessa’s family and friends. Sleep on my fellow Andrewz sister. You’ve done a great job here on earth, pursuing your passion through showing love and imparting your knowledge to the kids. Continue resting in the Arms of Jesus until we meet again.
Micshane
I struggled for quite some time before meeting this beautiful butterfly who became such a good friend to me. She made my days easier with her kind words, support and happiness , I will forever be grateful to her. Rest in eternal peace to an amazing butterfly 💜🦋🦋. I pray for the strength of her loved ones. 🦋💜
Shereka Smith
Sending you peace strength and comfort as you navigate this difficult time.
Rest up my sclero sister💜💜💜💜💜🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Anna Gutzmer
My deepest condolences to Vanessa’s family and friends. I will always cherish the memories of Vanessa, 🦋 Bfly dancer my dear high school friend💕
Keneisha Skeen
Losing a past Co worker who dedicated her life to educating, guiding, and inspiring others leaves a deep void in our hearts. Vanessa was more than a co-worker; she was a friend, a mentor, and a source of kindness and support to many. Her impact lives on through the students she taught and the lives she touched. Today, we honor her memory, celebrate her contributions, and keep her loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. May we continue to carry forward the compassion and dedication she showed each day. Vanessa you are gone but not forgotten. You memories will forever live on…. Rest peacefully.
Yanique Peddlar
Deepest condolences to the family. May God strengthen you in this time of grief. Vanessa was a bubbly, beautiful happy soul. She left an impact at Vaz Prep and St Andrew High that all who knew her will remember. Fly high butterfly 🦋
Tracy Thomson
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. It is truly heartbreaking to lose a classmate. May you find strength, comfort, and peace in the memories shared. Rest in peace Nessa. 🦋
Belinda Cousins
My deepest, deepest condolences to the family and dearest friends. Vanessa was a beautiful, brilliant soul, and truly inspirational. She will be missed. May the resurrection promised at John 5:28&29 bring comfort and hope at this time. 🙏🏽💜 💟
Britinay South
We mourn with the family and closest friends of Vanessa during this difficult time. From her St. Andrew High School Class of 2003, Vanessa made us all proud, shining brightly as an excellent teacher and a phenomenal woman. We thank God for her life and for all whom she poured so richly into. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Paulette Gordon
My heartfelt sincere and deepest sympathies to all the family, friends and well wishers on the passing of the late Vanessa . Tears are a language only God understands. May her dear soul rest in peace in eternal peace.
Debra Washington
Harris Family
My deepest condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
The world has lost a beautiful angel. May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you. Hold dear to her smile, her graceful dance moves and cherish those memories. It will be rough in the days ahead but we pray your strength.
Nicolette Manahan-Buchanan
Our sweet Vanessa, oh how we will miss your smile and warmth. We will remember you for a lifetime. Gone too soon. Lots of love from Class of 2003. #SAHS #LifeMoreAbundant
Trudy Morgan-Sharpe
I wish to extend condolences to Vanessa’s mom, siblings and other relatives. Her legacy will live on forever.
Fly freely “dancing butterfly” in heaven”s garden.
Itasche Crooks
Vanessa i miss you 😔 cuz you were a blessing to this ❤️ world, a light that shines bright on the hills, i will always cherish the moments we have growing up, thank you for the wonderful memories. Rip