Vernon Parker

On December 19, 2023, Father-God knew the pain and suffering you were experiencing. He presented you with your heavenly wings. Vernon was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on September 19, 1959. During Vernon's childhood, he attended First Baptist Elm Avenue Church located in Portsmouth, Virginia, where he served on the Usher Board. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High in Portsmouth, Virginia. Prior to moving to Florida, Vernon worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
Once Vernon moved to Florida, he met the love of his life, his wife, Gwendolyn Parker. He nicked-named her Hun because she was his HUN. Close friends and family members also begin calling her Gwen or Hun. He was given the nick-name of Pa by children. Vernon and Gwen were inseparable; their attentiveness and respect was unwavering and their love for each other was crystal clear. He was definitely a family man as she was a devoted wife. Thirty-three years of a blessed loving union that includes Gwen and Vernon's children: Ehrica Grant ( Nigel), LaTera Mitchell, Dione Mitchel (Greg) and Vernon's right hand, Lorenzo "Poo" Cole, and his grand kids, Jamar, Charles, Tereon, Ehric, Gregory, and Alayiah who he loved dearly.
Vernon was employed by Coach Fashion and Accessories in Jacksonville, Florida for several years, and later accepted a position with Community Hospice of Northeast Florida where he worked until he became ill. Another worthy mentioning of Vernon's life; his mother, Gladys M. Parker, she loved him unconditionally and he felt the same about her. His mother was elated when he married his wife, Gwen. He enjoyed coming home to Virginia on special occasions or holidays to partake in his mother's wonderful cooking and to mingle with family and friends. Vernon had a gift for making delicious crab pots for friends and family gatherings. He also prepared and cooked fried turkeys during the holidays and shipped them off to family and friends. He was a fan of both the Raider's football and LA Laker's basketball team.
As Vernon health continued to decline, he spent a majority of his time at home relaxing and watching his favorite television shows, "Wheel of Fortune", "Family Feud", and his sport shows. He was an avid bowler and member of TNBA until illness forced him to retire. Vernon's character manifested strength and endurance, he did not let others know the depth of his pain or suffering. Even though it is panful to say goodbye, I know you are now pain free and resting peacefully. When family members would asked how are you doing? You would always respond, "I'm alright" or "I'm just tired". That expression became your "mantra" as I heard you repeat it many times, now I agree you are "alright".
Vernon was preceded in death by his mother, Gladys M. Parker, and brother, Robert Rayvon Parker Sr.
Vernon leaves to cherish his memories: his devoted wife, Gwendolyn Parker (HUN); children: Ehrica Grant (Nigel), LaTera Mitchell, Dione Mitchel (Greg) and Lorenzo "Poo" Cole; siblings: Ronald Parker, Michael Parker (Sandra), Lillian Branch of Portsmouth, Maurice Parker of Norfolk, Virginia, James Parker (Deborah) of Jacksonville, Florida, Jean White (Michael) of Chesapeake, Virginia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Vernon will truly be missed by all that knew and loved him.
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