James Russell Vernon, Sr.

James Russell Vernon, Sr., 85, of 198 Plantation Road in Eden, passed away Thursday morning, January 23, 2014, at Morehead Memorial Hospital.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, January 25, at Fair Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Ridgeview Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Vernon was born April 18, 1928 in Leaksville, NC. He was the son of the late Merritt and Myrtle Clark Vernon. Mr. Vernon was a member of Martinsville Church of Truth and a retiree of Stoneville Furniture. Prior to his years with Stoneville Furniture, he worked as an independent paint contractor.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 61 years, Mary Lou Hand Vernon of the home; daughter, Connie Southern of North Myrtle Beach, SC; son, James Russell Vernon, Jr. ("J. R.") and wife, Jan of Eden; eight grandchildren, Jennifer Lynn, Traci Southern, Michael Vernon, Matthew Vernon, Christi Barrow, Tori Vernon, Travis Hutchens, and Jennifer Boyte; seven great-grandchildren; and sister, Estelle Billingsley of Reidsville.

In additon to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Clyde Sanford Vernon.

The family will receive friends Friday evening, 6 - 8 PM, at Fair Funeral Home and other times at the residence.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com