Vanessa Joy Nanthavongsa, 53, Rockford, a loving mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. She was born on January 1, 1973, in Laos, the daughter of Khamphanh and Champa Thammarath.

A dedicated member of the Ratanaram Buddhist Temple, she found comfort and strength in her monthly visits. Her spiritual devotion was also apparent in her beautiful collection of Buddhist statues.

Vanessa delighted in making people happy, especially through her eggrolls. She was known not just for her culinary skill but for the joy it brought to others. When not sharing her famous treats, Vanessa found her greatest pleasure in the laughter and company of her grandchildren. Gardening was another source of peace for Vanessa. She tenderly cared for roses and Laos pear trees, nurturing life as she did with her relationships.

Vanessa had a refined taste and a zest for experiences that made each day feel special. She loved the finer things—luxury cars, Starbucks, and maintaining aesthetics in her home. Her spirit of adventure also saw her as a joyful tourist, often visiting Chicago and delighting in new sights and new restaurants.

Her proudest accomplishment was her family, especially her three sons whom she affectionately called "the three stooges." They were the light of her life and a testament to her enduring love and care.

She is survived by her father, Khamphanh Thammarath; her partner, Joey Chanasomone; her sons, Steven Nanthavongsa, Johnathon Nanthavongsa, and Anthony Nanthavongsa; her grandchildren, Yaeliz and Nasiah; her sisters, Bousay Thammarath, Chanieng Cash, and Chansouk Thammarath. She is preceded in death by her mother, Champa Thammarath.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 3:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. To share memories and condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.