Vanessa Jeffries

Vanessa Jeffries, lovingly known as “Nessa”, a devoted mother, grandmother, wife, aunt, and friend, passed away in Lansing, Michigan, on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the age of 53, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Wednesday, May 10, 1972, in Lansing to Mary Knox and Roosevelt Chairs.

An avid reader, she thrived in academic settings. She graduated from Eastern High School in 1991 with honors. Soon after, she began a lifelong career rooted in service and connection. She spent many years in the hospitality industry, where her warm personality and hard work ethic consistently propelled her into management positions. Over the years, she managed several restaurants, forming lasting friendships with coworkers and customers who cherished her welcoming spirit. Later, Vanessa brought those same strengths to her family’s environmental service business. She took great pride in contributing to a company rooted in service and community, helping guide daily operations with the same dedication she had shown throughout her career.

On May 3, 1998, Vanessa married Michael Jeffries, Sr. in Jackson, Michigan. Together for 27 years, they raised their family in Lansing and later worked together in the family’s environmental service business.

She had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved Rottweilers. Music was another source of joy in her life; she could often be found singing and dancing. A notorious foodie, you could often find her cooking, and more importantly, eating, and above all, she cherished the time she spent with her family and friends, especially her sons. Her loving smile warmed the hearts of everyone she encountered.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Jeffries, Sr.; children, Sherridell (Ashley) Knox, Michael Jeffries, Jr., Marquis Jeffries, and Montrice Jeffries; stepdaughter, Malaysia Estes, whom she loved as her own. Grandchildren, Mo’Nae Estes, Mon’Tay Estes, and expected grandson, Ashar Knox. Siblings, Phillip (Yulawenda) Hicks, Orlando (Ava) Knox, Ralph Knox, Mae Knox, Tony (Terina) Knox, Eric Knox, Verness Knox, Haja Knox, Carletta Chairs, Delois (Chris) Campbell, Diane Chairs, Debber Chairs, and Carolyn Chairs, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Vanessa is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Empress Knox-Perrault and Donna Haymon; and brother, Michael Chairs.