Photo courtesy of Alexander Funeral Home, Inc. - Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
Oct 7, 1928 – May 16, 2015
Rev. Dr. Vernon Mack Herron was born in Charlotte, North Carolina October 7, 1928 and died May 16, 2015. Vernon was the fourth child of the late Samuel Joe Herron, Sr. and the former Mamie Grace (McPherson) Harris. Both parents preceded him in death as well as five brothers, Robert, Alonzo, Samuel Jr. Herron, James and Willie Harris; and four sisters, Arlene, Eloise, Curtis, and Jessie Maye Herron.
"Vernon Mack," as he is affectionately called, received his elementary and secondary education in Charlotte public schools. He attended Myers Street and Second Ward High schools. His initial religious education was obtained through the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he received the believer's baptism. After sixty five years of membership in the Ebenezer Baptist Church, Vernon united with the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 9 October 2005.
Dr. Herron was an active civil rights leader who marched with Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery, AL.
He completed his undergraduate study at Shaw University in Raleigh; the Master of Public Administration degree (MPA) from the Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA; and Master of Divinity degree (M. Div.) from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte. Finally, he received the Doctor of Ministry degree (D. Min.) from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA.
Vernon was initiated into the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity through Beta Rho chapter at Shaw University 1950. He became a life member (709) in 1971.
For forty-seven years, Vernon was married to the former Louise Christine Oliphant who preceded him in death. To this union three girls were born: Vernease Marcelinia, Leila McPherson, and Frenshetta Louise.
Dr. Herron was ordained into the gospel ministry 29 July 1951 and held pastorates in four Baptist Churches: First Baptist Church, Dallas, NC; Hopewell Baptist Church, Jeannette, PA: Friendship Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA; and Second Baptist Church, Joliet, IL. He also served as Assistant to the Minister of the Shiloh Baptist Church of South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania after holding membership in the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Germantown, Pennsylvania.
In 1968, Dr. Herron was commissioned a missionary by the former American Baptist Home Mission Society. He served on the national staff of the American Baptist Churches, Board of National Ministries at Valley Forge, PA. He also worked with the Division of Social Justice and Welfare of the National Council of Churches. His missionary work enabled him to travel extensively speaking in Africa, Europe and West Indies. Dr. Herron was a practicing genealogist in his retirement responsible for the identification and marking of numerous slave cemeteries.
He is survived by three daughters: Vernease Marcelinia Herron Miller (Keith); his health care giver Leila McPherson Herron Waters; and Phoenix Louise Herron(formerly Frenshetta); three grandchildren: Angelita Marie Wynn, Alexander Herron Waters and Keith D. Miller, II; three great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and many extended family members and friends.
Funeral service will be held at the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 3401 Beatties Ford Rd., Charlotte, NC 28216 on May 22, 2015 at 12 noon. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity will conduct the Omega ceremony at 10:15 am. Visitation will be from 10-12.
I just found out of Dr. Herron's passing - my heart goes out to all the family. We were old genealogy buddies and I teach some sessions for CGS - I wish I had been able to visit him before his transition. He will be missed.
Margo Scurry
October 10, 2015 | Charlotte, NC
We just learned of your father's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God continue to bless you. Love, Noah Stewart and Tanya Blackmon
Tanya Blackmon
June 21, 2015 | Charlotte, NC
Many thanks to everyone for your thoughtful condolences which my sisters and I receive with grateful appreciation.
Vernease Herron Miller
June 03, 2015 | Charlotte, NC
Today we returned to this, oh, so sad news of Dr. Herron's passing. He was beloved for his warmth of welcome, for his wisdom, for his outreach, by so many, truly by all who came in contact with him. I am so grateful for the impact he had in my life. Our prayers and deepest sympathy to all his family and friends,
Nancy Carter
Nancy Carter
May 25, 2015 | Charlotte, NC
My heart breaks to learn of the passing of a dear friend, Dr. Vernon Herron. No words can express the magnitude of joy that came from him, in every conversation, every smile, and gesture. My prayers are extended to the family. Please know that Dr. Herron will be missed by many.
"God makes no mistakes in His choices, for He only chooses the BEST"!
Deborah Brice
May 25, 2015 | Charlotte, NC
We were so deeply sorry to hear of the death of our dear cousin Vernon. We were glad to have been able to see him and spend a little time with him the early part of May. Such an inspirational and smart man that loved family. We will miss him so very much. Our love to all of you.
Debbie and Mark Woodson
May 24, 2015 | Greenville, NC
Mr. Herron was always kind and supportive. At the Tuesday Breakfast Forum he always asked great questions and was engaged in the future of our community. At a funeral at Friendship a few months ago, he waved at me when I came in and motioned for me to sit next to him. I was honored to do that. I will never forget him. Mr. Herron and his family will be in my prayers.
Commissioner Pat Cotham
May 23, 2015
My sincere condolences to Rev. Herron's family. Precious memories are recalled of his ministry at Second Bapt. Church and his genealogy research.
Connie Dillon
May 22, 2015 | Joliet, IL
May God Bless and comfort the family. Dr Herron always had a kind word and friendly attitude. He will surely be missed.
Thomas Jones
May 22, 2015 | Charlotte, NC