Vanessa Brenda Riley's Obituary
In Loving Memory of
Vanessa Brenda Riley
September 23, 1960 – June 9, 2025
We gather to celebrate the extraordinary life of Vanessa Brenda Riley. A remarkable woman whose love, strength, and compassion touched everyone around her.
Born on September 23, 1960, in Harlem, New York Vanessa was the beloved daughter of Gladys and Van Buren Riley. She was the second eldest of six siblings and took great pride in being a Riley—carrying her family name with honor, loyalty, and joy.
Vanessa dedicated her life to GOD and her family.
She will be sorely missed by all who loved her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Van Buren and Gladys Riley; her husband Keita Yaya; her oldest brother, Van Buren Riley; her sister, Mary Ann New; her Nephew, Billy New.
Vanessa leaves cherished memories with her son, Michael Riley; her two brothers, Glenn Riley and Martin Riley; her two sisters, Tracey Riley and Tawana Riley; her daughter-in-law, Isabel Riley; her sisters-in-law, Michelle Riley and Corina Riley; her grandchildren, Anthony Riley, Jaycob Riley, Makayla Riley and Neveah Riley; and nine nephews, Van Jr., Buren, Glenn Jr., Joshua, Thomas, Pharaoh, Isaiah, Sherod and Darryn and six nieces Jasmin, Taysha, LaToya, Diesha, Mable and Jonell and her God daughters Aria Brown, and Yvonne Wilson and God son Diaron Wilson and a cherished host of great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends, all of whom felt the warmth of her nurturing spirit.
Her influence on all their lives is immeasurable, and her legacy of love will live on through each of them.
Professionally, Vanessa served as a nurse, dedicating her life to the care and healing of others. Her career was a reflection of her soul—selfless, compassionate, and full of heart. She brought comfort and strength to countless lives, embodying the true spirit of service.
As we honor Vanessa’s life, we reflect on the beautiful memories, the laughter, and the unconditional love she so freely gave. She lived with grace, cared deeply, and loved fully. She was our anchor, our light, our beloved Nec-Nec.
She will be deeply missed but forever remembered—in every smile, every story, every act of kindness inspired by her life.
We love you, Nec-Nec… always.
What’s your fondest memory of Vanessa?
What’s a lesson you learned from Vanessa?
Share a story where Vanessa's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Vanessa you’ll never forget.
How did Vanessa make you smile?