Salima "Vanessa" Ghani Colbert

Salima “Vanessa” Ghani Colbert’s purpose began on December 17, 1957, and her journey concluded on August 14, 2026. Vanessa was born into a large and loving family to her parents, Salitine Ghani (father) and Malika Ghani (mother), both of whom preceded her in death.

Vanessa shared her life with her siblings: David Ghani (brother, deceased); Sal Ghani (brother); Emmanuel Lewis (brother); Patricia Terry “Pat” (sister, deceased); Ayesha Dula (sister, married to Berry Dula); Basheeba Farley “Tiny” (sister, married to Lester Farley, deceased); and Fatima Smith (sister, married to Kenneth “Ken” Smith). Their roots trace back to Georgia by way of Ohio.

Vanessa’s life journey was impactful and full of purpose. During her marriage to Henry Joseph Colbert Sr. in Ohio, she welcomed her only daughter, Che’Rri “Malika” Colbert. From there, her legacy continued to grow. Che’Rri later married Devere Deshawn Gunn Sr., “Shawn,” and together they are the proud parents of Cha’Rmaine Lianne Colbert “Mainey” (granddaughter), who brought even more joy into Vanessa’s life through her children: Lianne Hailey Williams “Hailey,” Christopher Williams Jr. “CJ,” and Mia Che’Rri Colbert (great-grandchildren).

Vanessa was also blessed with grandchildren Devere Deshawn Gunn Jr. “Vere,” Devere Gunn III “D3,” Cha’Nice DeShay Gunn “Shay-Shay,” and Zoey Gunn “Zo” (grand puppy), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Vanessa was a devoted evangelist who sang and spoke the Word of God with spirit and truth, always presenting it with humility, grace, and wisdom.

During her spiritual journey, she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting. She became a Certified Public Accountant, working for the government before concluding her career in the banking industry as a financial accountant. Vanessa’s legacy continues through the imprint she left behind, which was purposely designed to move forward. This is just the beginning.

The family would like to thank all those who have called, texted, stopped by, and offered support in the many other ways during Vanessa’s spiritual journey of rest. We are grateful and deeply appreciate you all.

Private Services. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.