Vernon James Clem

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vernon James Clem, 89, of Metairie, Louisiana, who passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. We are comforted that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Vernon was born on January 10, 1936 in Palmdale, CA, to the late Mabel Scott. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, Vernon lived a life marked by humility, service and deep faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jane Oyler, first wife Nell Clem, son-in-law Mato Dragicevic, son Steven Clem and daughter-in-law Kaycee Clem, stepson Darwin Perrer and granddaughter Vernell LeMay. He is survived by his beloved second wife of 39 years Marian Clem, his daughters Peggy Dragicevic and Valerie LeMay, stepdaughters Rosalyn Bourgeois and Julie Beideman, stepson-in-law Rowdy Bourgeois, his twelve cherished grandchildren: Ali, Anita, Bobbie, Chandler, Diana, Gregory, Ina, Jarah, Joey, Mari, Marty and Willie and sixteen great-grandchildren: Addison, Alexandra, Amelia, Audrey, Bella, Emma, Eva, Gage, Gavin, Jordan, Jorgia, Kollen, Nickolas, Peydon, Rylee and Sean. Vernon is also survived by his sister Ruth Eatherton and numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Vernon dedicated over 22 years of service to his country through his military career in the Navy. He was a skilled mechanic who worked on Navy aircrafts and, after his military retirement, boats and automobiles. A man of deep faith, Vernon had a profound love for Jesus, his family, his country and the open road-finding joy in music, traveling across the United States and making memories with those he loved most. Vernon will be deeply missed but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Faithful Word Assembly Church, 1401 Joe Yenni Blvd., Kenner, LA 70065. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Vernon's memory to the military charity of your choice or at https://everloved.com/life-of/vernon-clem/. Arrangements entrusted to Tharp Funeral Home. Expressions of love and sympathy may be placed or viewed at www.tharpcares.com.