Vernon Ludwell Shawver

Vernon Ludwell Shawver (AKA Tomato Man)

Vernon left this world to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. His love of chess has now become a celestial one.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, William and Freeda Shawver; his brother, William (Bill) Shawver; his sister, Mona Siders-Willoughby; and his nephews, Sherman Fields and Joshua Fields.

He is survived by his wife, Joann Shawver; his daughters, Theodora (Chris) Roush and Stephanie (Paul) Medert; and his grandchildren: Shelby, Evelyn, and Wyatt Roush, and Coraline and Freya Medert. He is also survived by his sister, Garnett Bayless; his brother-in-law, Jesse Mills; and his nephew, Richard Siders. He leaves behind nieces Cheryl Fields, Oma (Shellie) Timmons, Joanna Madden, and Sam Reichle, along with many other nieces and nephews.

Vernon retired from Columbus City Schools as a Special Education transportation bus driver. For many years, he also dedicated his time to driving the church bus for Williams Road Freewill Baptist Church, along many years of with delivering food for Life Care Alliance (Meals on Wheels). The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to Luminary Hospice—especially Alice Brown, Heather Beaver, and Courtney Neff—for their love, kindness, and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Vernon’s memory to Luminary Hospice (2400 Corporate Exchange Drive, Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43231).

Vernon's love, hugs, dad jokes, and illuminating smile will be missed by all who knew him.

Service Information:

Viewing: January 5th from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.

Funeral Service: January 6th at noon.

Interment: A funeral procession to Obetz Cemetery will follow the service on the 6th.