Vanessa Vallynne Berkley

Also known as "Nessy," and lovingly called "Memaw" by her grandson, whom she cherished with every inch of her heart, Vanessa passed away on 8-31-25 at the age of 51.

Vanessa's life was never an easy one, but she faced it with a free spirit and a fearless heart. She was an incredible artist who could bring horses, fairies, and anything she imagined to life with a pencil. She loved animals deeply — even feeding raccoons as though they were her own pets. Butterflies, dolphins, and especially horses held a special place in her soul.

She endured heartbreak no mother should ever have to face, losing her baby daughter in 2001 and her son in 2006. Despite these tragedies and her lifelong battle with addiction, Vanessa never stopped being loving and full of life.

Vanessa's life, though cut short, serves as a reminder that addiction does not define a person's worth, and her family hopes her story may bring awareness and strength to others who are struggling.

She is survived by her daughter, Dessy (Seth) Perry; her beloved grandchildren, Kenton and Emerson; her sister and best friend, Delia (Rocky); her brothers, Percival (Amanda) and David; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her best friend, Racky, who always stood by her side.

She is preceded in death by her children, Vallisha and Exzavian, as well as her parents, Harry H. Carr and Artie A. Spillman.

In honor of Vanessa's memory, the family encourages anyone struggling with addiction to seek help and to know they are never alone. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.