Vanessa Collins Foster was born on April 29, 1957, to the late Lelia Mae Collins and the late Temple Raymond Peake, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She was educated in the Spartanburg County school system and graduated from Spartanburg High School in 1975. Vanessa continued her education at South Carolina State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education in 1979. While attending South Carolina State, she pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and was an active member of the Spartanburg Alumni Association. She later continued her studies at Converse College, earning a master's degree in education in 1983.

Vanessa dedicated 28 years of faithful service to education and retired from Cleveland Elementary School, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and commitment to her students.

Vanessa was united in marriage to Jerome Foster and together they shared thirty beautiful years of love, laughter, and partnership.

Vanessa possessed a bubbly and nurturing demeanor and truly never met a stranger. She was known for her selfless spirit, always placing the needs of others before her own. She enjoyed quilting, good conversation, and fellowship with family and friends. A proud fan of both the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers, Vanessa never missed a chance to cheer on her favorite teams. Her favorite color was red, which reflected her warmth, strength, and vibrant personality.

She was a devoted member of Jerusalem Baptist Church, where she served faithfully and was also a member of the Sympathy Club. Additionally, she participated in the Mt. Sinai Baptist Monday Quilters, where she enjoyed fellowship and creativity with others who shared her passion for quilting.

Vanessa was preceded in death, along with her parents, by her siblings, Yvette Collins, Valerie Collins, and Terry Collins.

She leaves a lifetime of love and laughter to her devoted husband, Jerome Foster of the home; her children, Gerald Foster of Pacolet, South Carolina, and Felecia Foster of Inman, South Carolina; her siblings, Timothy (Sena) Collins, Sr. of Inman, South Carolina, and Rodney (Marie) Collins of Spartanburg, South Carolina; her aunt, Alice Hunter of Union, South Carolina; one grandchild, Jeree Greene; five great-grandchildren; her sister-cousin, Ruby Wilkie and Melody Murray. She will also be lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

On the evening of Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Vanessa peacefully transitioned at Spartanburg Medical Center. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.