Vanessa Denise Patrick, age 68, of Washington, D.C., passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at Howard University Hospital. She was born on April 17, 1957, in Joliet, Illinois, and raised in Wellsville, Ohio.

Vanessa was the beloved daughter of the late Joe Wilson and Nellie Ruth Huff. She was also preceded in death by her sisters Lula Beal, Arnetta Beal, Cora Beal, and Gwendolyn Huff, and her brothers Harvey McSwain and Jerry Beal.

A proud graduate of Wellsville High School and Ashland University, Vanessa valued education, personal growth, and lifelong learning.

Throughout her life, Vanessa lived in several places, including Ohio and Detroit, Michigan, before settling in Washington, D.C., where she resided with her loving husband, Charles Patrick, until her passing.

A wife, mother, and grandmother, Vanessa was known for her impeccable sense of style—especially her passion for shoes. To know Vanessa was to love her. Her strength and grace left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Vanessa leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Charles Patrick; her daughters Danielle Ginn, Berneice Woodson, and Mica Marks; her sons Christopher (Katie) Beal and Brandon Woodson; her brothers Dallas (Christine) Beal, Joseph Beale, Jack (Angelique) Beal, Chester Beal, and George Huff Jr. She is also cherished by a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with extended family and dear friends.

Vanessa will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Howard University Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.