Farrell Vernon

Farrell Cline Vernon MARION, Va. Farrell Cline Vernon, age 77, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2010,at his Home. He was born in Smyth County, Va., on May 17, 1933, to the late Robert Lee Vernon and Willie Jane Hopkins Vernon. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennett Judson Vernon and Staley Maitland Vernon; and a sister, Ruby Vernon Richardson. He had retired from the Brunswick Corporation after 36 ½ years of service, beginning his career in the commercial department and finishing in the defense department. Mr. Vernon was a member of Gethsemane Baptist Church. He was a lifetime supporter of Marion Senior High School Athletics Department and was inducted into the Smyth County Sports Hall of Fame. He encouraged young people to put their faith first, and stressed the importance of character and integrity both in the classroom and on the athletic field. Mr. Vernon was a man of strong faith who instilled those values in his family. He loved life, people, nature, and the land on which he lived. He is survived by: his loving wife and caregiver of 52 years, Delora "Debbie" Baker Vernon; two daughters, Robin Lynne Vernon, Winston-Salem, N.C., Donna Vernon Rodgers and husband W. Bradford Rodgers, Kernersville, N.C.; two grandchildren, Rob Rodgers and Beth Rodgers, Kernersville; nephew and niece, Buford Richardson, Ohio, Lynda Richardson,Hill, Tenn.; a great-nephew, Jeff Richardson, Marion; many other friends, neighbors and caregivers also survive. Funeral services will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2010, from the Bradley's Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ryan Cox and Rev. Pat Gilbert officiating. Interment will follow in Laurel Springs Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday afternoon from 3-5 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Adwolfe Fire Department & Rescue Squad; the Marion Lifesaving Crew; or the Marion Senior High School Athletics Department. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com Bradley's Funeral Home of Marion is serving the family of Mr. Vernon.