Vanessa Marie Uzupes, age 54, of Naples, Florida, passed peacefully at home on November 7, 2025, with family by her side, following an illness.

Born March 29, 1971, she is preceded in death by her father, the late Robert A. Uzupes and step-mother, the late Barbara’ Ann T. Uzupes, both of Hawley, and her mother, the late Rose King of Cheraw, South Carolina.

She is survived by her husband, Mark Owens of Naples, Florida, their daughter, Emma Uzupes Owens, their son, Nathan Owens, both of Florida; her brother, Vinson Uzupes of Hawley, Pennsylvania; sisters Lisa Slish and her husband Michael Slish of Seelyville, Pennsylvania; Cheryl Podhany and her fiancé, Michael Zabresky, of Scranton, Pennsylvania; Carin Podhany and her fiancé, August Opalek, of Blakely, Pennsylvania; aunts, uncles, sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces.

She graduated from Wallenpaupack Area High School, class of 1989, and was an alumni of Penn State University. Vanessa found soulfulness in music, all aspects of nature and the beauty of this earth, which she journeyed with love, grace and gratitude. She was a gentle breeze of comfort and love to all that needed the support that she provided so willingly and without hesitation. Her children, family and friends held a deep place in her heart.

Her family and friends enjoyed her silly, goofy side which was followed by a smile that lit the room like the warm sunshine she was so grateful to feel upon her face. She thrived in simple pleasures such as feeling the gentle breeze, enjoying the sight and sound of the ocean’s waves, or the smoothness of the perfect stone. She saw the message of love hidden in nature’s canvas, and shared the secret with her loved ones, like a small treasure. Her many paintings reflected the beauty and joy she perceived in everything around her.

Vanessa will be dearly missed. However her love lives on in those whose lives she touched, and were blessed to know and love her.

A memorial service for Vanessa will be held at 4 PM on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Teeters’ East Chapel, 505 Church St., Hawley, PA 18428. Visitation will be immediately prior from 2 to 4 PM at the funeral home.