Vanessa (Johnson) Roach was born on September 24, 1954 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to the late Irvin and Williemae Johnson.  She departed this life unexpectedly on August 24, 2026, in the comfort of her home.

Vanessa was raised in Franklin Township and later made her home in Piscataway, New Jersey, before relocating to Hampton, Virginia.

Throughout her career, Vanessa served in several meaningful roles, including positions with Union Carbide in New Jersey, the City of Hampton’s fuel assistance program, the mayor’s office in Newport News, and the Newport News Sheriff’s Department.

In 2022, after ten years of exemplary service, Vanessa retired from the City of Newport News Human Services Department, where she served as an administrative assistant.  She was highly respected throughout her career and was honored with an Administrative Assistant of the Year award.

Vanessa found joy in life’s simple pleasures.  She loved going to the casino, watching television thrillers, caring for plants, admiring butterflies, and playing games on her phone. She was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, and Christmas was her favorite time of year.

Those who knew Vanessa will remember her as strong, spirited, and unforgettable, a woman whose presence left a lasting impression.

Vanessa was blessed with many cherished friendships, including a special bond with her best friend, Valerie Watts.  She would want everyone who loved her to remember and celebrate the good times they shared.

Vanessa was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved baby brother, Raymond Johnson.

Vanessa leaves to cherish her memory her son, Roland Nathaniel Roach (Dorothy); granddaughter, Jenaye; great-granddaughter, Nah’la; daughter, Rolanda Renee Roach; grandson, Elijah; granddaughter, Nariyah; grandson, Israel; daughter, Tiffany Lynette Johnson; sister, Marjorie Lassiter; brother, Irvin Johnson; sister, Elaine Johnson (Charles); brother, Alvin Johnson (Valerie); brother, Charles Brice (Fannie); devoted niece, Latitisa Russell (Louis); aunt, Daisy Mae Robinson; best friend, Valerie Watts; and a host of other family members and friends who will dearly miss her.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel.