In Loving Memory of Rachel Harleston

A mother’s love never truly leaves us. It becomes the voice that guides us, the strength that carries us, and the memories we hold close when we wish we could have just one more moment with her.

Some lives are measured in years, while others are measured by the love they give, the lives they touch, and the memories they leave behind. Rachel Harleston, 56, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Ascension All Saints in Racine, Wisconsin. Born in Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Africa, Rachel leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family that will endure for generations.

Rachel’s smile could brighten a room, and her vibrant personality left a lasting impression wherever she went. She loved people, and her warmth, joyful spirit, and strong faith touched the lives of those who knew her. She had a way of making people feel welcome and creating memories they would treasure long after the moment passed.

Rachel moved from Côte d’Ivoire to the United States in her mid-twenties. Eventually, she made her home in Wisconsin, where she built lasting relationships and connections with those she cherished.

On July 26, 2013, Rachel married her beloved husband, Marcel B. Vanié, and they shared a special chapter of their lives. She loved him dearly, and his memory remained an important part of her story.

Rachel enjoyed cooking, music, travel, laughter, dancing, gardening, and fashion. Above all, she treasured spending time with her children and grandchildren and bringing family and friends together. She found joy in these moments of connection and in the love shared among those closest to her. Her two dogs, Jackson and Bentley, also held a special place in her heart.

Rachel’s faith in God was central to her life. She lived her beliefs through her actions, her service, and the love she showed others. She generously gave her time and energy to her community and was involved with the Association of Wisconsin, OROCI Illinois, G20, Belles Dames, and her church. Her faith and commitment to serving others reflected the woman she was: devoted, caring, loving, and joyful. She carried her beliefs into the way she treated people and the way she gave of herself.

Rachel worked at InSinkErator for more than 20 years. Throughout her career, she demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and a strong work ethic while building meaningful relationships. She was known for her positivity and radiant smile, qualities that made her presence memorable to those who worked alongside her.

To her children, Rachel was more than a mother; she was a source of love, strength, and inspiration, an irreplaceable part of what made life feel like home. Her love and influence will continue through her children: Rosemond Harleston, Stephanie Harleston, Larry Harleston, Arnaud Vanié, David Vanié, James Vanié, and Floriane Vanié.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Macy Harleston, Henry Harleston, Davina Vanié, Evangelina Vanié, Abiguaelle Vanié, Nehemiah Vanié, Nesiah Vanié, Neriah Vanié, Jhaiden Vanié, Exodus Vanié, Kymani Vanié, Kaylani Vanié, and Israel Acheampong.

Rachel is also survived by her siblings: Alice Tiécoura, Charles Tiécoura, Olivier Tiécoura, Florent Tiécoura, Ange Tiécoura, and Marina Tiécoura. Her extended family and dear friends will continue to hold her memory close and remember her with love.

Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Etienne Tiécoura and Fatou Bingo; her beloved husband, Marcel B. Vanié; her brother, Hervé Tiécoura; and her sister, Augustine Tiécoura.

There will be difficult days, moments of longing, and times when her absence is felt more deeply than words can explain. Yet she will also bring smiles through familiar memories and comfort in knowing her place in the family’s story will always remain.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Rachel’s story continues through cherished memories, family bonds, and the generations who will speak her name with love. We will remember her smile, treasure her spirit, and hold her love close forever.

A beloved mother. A cherished grandmother. A loving sister. A radiant smile. A vibrant spirit. A life never forgotten.

Rest peacefully, Rachel. May your memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved you.

A Homegoing Funeral Service will be held at Life Creek Church, 2020 E. Drexel Avenue, Oak Creek, WI on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. A burial will be held at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 21731 Spring Street, Union Grove, WI on Monday, November 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. We will be meeting at the Main Gate from 1:50 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. and then we will process to the chapel together.