Uncle Vernon

December 8, 1924 — August 24, 2011

We recently lost a special member of the family. His name was Vernon and he was one of three boys born to Arthur and Ester.

Uncle Vernon was a humble, soft-spoken, kind man. Family was very important to him and he clearly recalled details about each and every one — things long forgotten by others. He had many stories to share about growing up and life on the farm.

Vernon worked in a factory for seventeen years, becoming a door-to-door salesman after the business closed. For years he knocked on doors peddling his wares. The McNess products he sold must have been in demand because he acquired many loyal customers. We wondered how a shy man like Vernon could do a job that even the bravest of souls shied away from.

Household items were not the only products Vernon sold door-to-door. For years he sold hair products to women in the African American community. I can only imagine what it must have been like, as an African American woman, to have this tall, red-haired, fair-skinned, freckle-faced man knocking on the door to sell you picks and hair solutions. It says a lot about Vernon's gentle nature. He was accepted by everyone because of the sincerity and kindness he displayed.

We love you, Uncle Vernon.

Vernon as a young child.

He farmed for several years.

Vernon had one son and daughter. He is shown here with
his grandson Nathaniel, who is now 17 years old.