William Vernor

William R. Vernor “Bue” Sr., age 83 of Springfield, Missouri, passed away at 2:03 am on July 24, 2024, at Mercy Hospital.

William was born on June 20, 1941, in Ripley, Mississippi, to John and Dorothy Vernor.

On July 24, 2024, our lives were completely changed. The return call I made broke mine, my siblings, and others’ hearts that the Lord above called William home.

William was a family man, he raised 5 children. He was a protector and a provider for his family. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his family and friends.

Proud to say 30 years of rollin’ in his 18-wheeler across state to state with his windows down while enjoying the different types of weather hitting his face, playing his jazz music, looking over the steering wheel, blowing that horn, “get out the way”, just cussing and smiling was heaven to him. He also held other industry jobs long term for about 20 years.

Off the road, William loved listening to his music, and watching sports. He loved playing handball, softball, and he also used to referee a basketball team. William loved all 83 years of his life, and we loved him too.

William was preceded in death by his parents, John and Dorothy Vernor; 2 brothers, Harry T. Vernor and Kenneth Vernor; 2 sisters, Ellen Vernor and Mildred Words; 1st wife, Essie Burnette; daughter, Raquel Vernor; and great-granddaughter, Tre’Najia.

William is survived by his significant other, Carol Malone; his oldest child, Jackie (Mack); other children, Joshua (Jennifer), William R. Vernor Jr., Vincent Burnette; 2nd wife, Jeanette; 2 brothers, William Adkins (Wilhemina), Ronald Vernor; 3 sisters, Sarah (Fred), Sharon (Kevin), Genice; step-children, Jamie, Amanda (Tim), Matthew, Anthony (Monse), Steven (Daueka); 33 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be at 2:00 pm, Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 at Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home: 500 E. Walnut Street Springfield, Missouri 65806, with Rev. Willie Burkett presiding over services.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.