Vynessa Nichole Arthur

Vynessa Nichole Arthur, age 41, passed away surrounded by the love of her family after a hard-fought battle with complications from liver failure. 

She is survived by her husband, Thomas May; her beloved children, Bryce, Brynden, Bryleigh, and Warren; her sisters, Kendel (Joshua) DeHart and Alysia (James) Arthur; her brother, Klay Arthur; her step-sister Kelli (John) Beatty; her father, Rich Arthur; her Aunt, Donna; her grandmother, Dorothy Arthur; her mother-in-law, Barbara “Mom” May; sister-in-law, Bethany (Brady) Reynolds; brothers-in-law: Josh (Cassie) May, Will (Val) May, Robert (Beth Ann) May; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved deeply.

Vanessa was preceded in death by her cherished brothers, Andy and Eston Orender. We take comfort in imagining their reunion — one filled with the peace and closeness that was always meant for them. She was also preceded in death by father-in-law, Paul May Jr. 

Vynessa’s greatest love in life was her children. They were her world, her purpose, and her joy. She loved them fiercely and completely, and they brought light into her life every single day. 

She lived a life marked by both deep challenges and deep love. She navigated hardships that would have broken many, but she remained a fighter through it all. That strength was evident even in her final days, when she continued to push forward with the same stubborn spirit those who knew her will always remember. 

She was also unmistakably herself — quick with sarcasm, sharp-witted, and never one to miss an opportunity to tease the people she loved. Even in her last days, that part of her never left, a reminder of the personality that made her so uniquely Vynessa.

Vynessa will be remembered for her fierce love, her resilience, and the way she held onto the people she loved most. Her story was not simple, but it was real, and it mattered. She leaves behind a family who will carry her memory forward in both love and strength.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 24th, 2026, from 4PM-8PM at the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Jackson. Cremation will follow. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillum.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the funeral home to help with expenses.