Russell Vernon

Russell "Rusty" M. Vernon
July 19, 1948 - November 17, 2025
Russell "Rusty" M. Vernon, 77, of Towson, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on November 17, 2025. Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Rusty was a standout wrestler and talented artist at Granby High School, graduating in 1966. He went on to attend Old Dominion University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a focus on marketing. During his college years, he was an active member of Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity, where he met his future wife, Kathryn "Kate" O'Connor. They married in June 1971 and shared 54 wonderful years together.
Rusty began his professional life as an art teacher before transitioning into what became his lifelong career in video and digital technology sales. He spent 27 years in government sales with Sony, where he built a successful career and earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Rusty lived in Severna Park, Maryland, for more than 40 years before moving to Towson in March 2025. He enjoyed gardening, painting, and cheering for his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. His garden was his pride and joy, a place where he found both creativity and peace. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and his four beloved grandchildren.
Rusty is survived by his wife, Kathryn Vernon; his children Jason Vernon (wife Daniele Araujo), Megan Hopkinson (husband Chris Hopkinson and children Olivia, Emma, and Miles), and Kasey Lazovic (husband Ivan Lazovic and son Dimitrije). He was preceded in death by his parents, Felix and Thelma Vernon, and his sister, Mittie Sue Burchett.
He will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and his deep love for family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service will be held on December 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Blakehurst, 1055 W. Joppa Rd., Towson, MD 21204