Vena Karen Assiamah-Ansong

Vena Karen Assiamah-Ansong was a one-of-a-kind angel of a woman—an adoring mother, a devoted and hilarious friend, a loving sister, and a humble Christian. She was the life of every party, often teasing the ones she cherished most.

Born as Vena Karen Williams on December 7, 1953, in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, she lived a life filled with love, laughter, and faith. She peacefully passed away on December 11, 2024, with her family by her side.

At the age of 10, Vena moved to New York City with her hardworking, single mother, Inez, and her six siblings: Alvino (V.O.), Verna, Albion (Beenie), Myra, Vernon, and Elma.

Vena attended Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn, NY, where she excelled. Upon graduation, she pursued studies in stenography and legal studies at Brooklyn Technical College (now New York City College of Technology). She later became a mother when she welcomed her first child, Shawn Holiday, and together they built a life in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Vena’s love for children was evident early on, as she began her career as a high school teacher.

In 1981, Vena graduated from Baruch College with a Bachelor of Arts in Business. While at Baruch, she met her husband of 43 years, George Assiamah-Ansong, and launched her decades-long career as a legal secretary, working at major law firms in New York and Atlanta.

On October 24, 1981, Vena married George, and their family grew with the birth of their daughter, Jessica Yaa Assiamah-Ansong, in 1985, and youngest son, Kwabena Mandela Assiamah-Ansong, in 1990. The family relocated to Marietta, Georgia, on August 31, 1990. A year later, Vena welcomed her stepsons, Eric and Steven Assiamah-Ansong, from Accra, Ghana, expanding her family even further.

In Georgia, Vena’s faith flourished. She was a member of International Gospel Outreach (IGO) Church and later Destiny Metropolitan Worship Church, where she dedicated over two decades to leading children-focused ministries.

In 2001, her eldest son, Shawn, moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the music industry. Not only did he build a life for himself, but he also created a home for Vena. She frequently traveled to Los Angeles, cherishing time with her grandchildren and forming lifelong friendships with a group of mothers whose children are among Shawn’s closest friends.

Known for her quick wit, infectious energy, and weekly hikes at Kennesaw Mountain, Vena also had a bold and fabulous fashion sense. She loved to shop and had an incredible knack for finding stylish clothes at incredible discounts, delighting her loved ones with thoughtful and trendy gifts. She made close friends in the most unexpected places, from gyms and beauty shops to her local tailor. Vena treasured life’s simple pleasures—a hearty laugh, deep connections, and the unwavering love of her family.

Vena is survived by her loving husband, George; her children, Shawn, Jessica, Kwabena, and Eric; her siblings, Alvino, Myra, Vernon, and Elma; and her many grandchildren: Alaysia and Ashton Holiday, Tolani Oladele, Cedric, Colin, and Erin Assiamah-Ansong, and Landyn Craddock, extended family members, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Vernon Williams Sr. and Inez (Nibbs) Rockhead; her stepson, Steven Assiamah-Ansong; her brother, Albion Williams; and her sister, Verna Williams.

Vena will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her strength, resilience, and generous heart remain an enduring inspiration to her family and friends, whose lives she touched so profoundly. Her legacy of faith, love, and laughter continues to shine through all who carry her memory.

A celebration of her life will be held on December 21 at 2 PM at Cheatham Hill Memorial Park.