Vanessa L. Martin Obituary (1957 - 2023)

Vanessa L. Bivens Martin was born on March 31, 1957, to the late Clarence Jackson and Lucille J. Bivens. With the blessing of being raised in a loving Christian home, Vanessa accepted Christ at an early age. She later united with St. Luke First Missionary Baptist Church (currently The Crossing Community Church) under the leadership of Pastor Harvey M. Walker. Vanessa attended Houston Public Schools and graduated from Jack Yates High School Class of 1975. Vanessa was a strong, caring, and independent woman. She enjoyed spending time with family, going shopping, dining out at various restaurants (Schulze BBQ in particular), and getting her mani & pedi. Throughout her life, Vanessa maintained a demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many. Working as a Certified Nurses Aide, she was afforded the opportunity to enrich so many lives. Some of her employers included Park Plaza Hospital, Cambridge Health and Rehabilitation, Richmond State School, Houston Hospice, and Harbor Hospice, just to name a few. Still having a desire to further her education, Vanessa later attended Texas Southern University where she earned a Batchelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Vanessa retired from Richmond State Supported Living Center as a Campus Security Duty Officer in Richmond, Texas after 20 years of dedicated service. Vanessa was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Jackson and Lucille Bivens. In the care of the Almighty God, Vanessa leaves to mourn her three sons; Patrick Jackson, Michael E. Bivens (Danielle) and Ronald Walker, Jr. ; seven grandchildren DeJean, Kelis, Jamychael, Amariyon, Kaitlyn, Kendall Jr., and Kaleb; one sister Beatrice Lynch of Denver, CO; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.