Vernon Larell Cole

Passed with Dignity on May 7, 2016 surrounded by loved ones. Vernon was born on May 4, 1918 in Clarksville, Arkansas, to parents: William and Bertie Cole. He was one out of 9 Siblings, being the last remaining sibling. His large family traveled from Arkansas to Oklahoma in a covered wagon, leaded by a blind mare and a donkey. After reaching Oklahoma, his family worked at picking cotton and any other odd jobs that were available during the depression era. During these years, his mother taught all her children the bible teachings. After working and saving they were able to buy a used Model T Ford, the family moved towards Arizona and homesteaded in the Hassayama area in Western Arizona. Vernon tackled the world with an 8th grade education from Wintersburg- Maricopa public school in 1936.

He started employment with Southern Pacific Railroad on April 1939 at the age of 20 years old. He wasn’t quite old enough to work without his parents approval, so they signed a minor’s release allowing Vernon to work. This action started his long career with Southern Pacific railroad. The U.S. Navy drafted Vernon in 1942 at San Diego, CA. he boarded the U.S.S. Crane as a first class machinist. Vernon was a World War II veteran and left the Navy with an Honorable discharge in 1945. After the Navy, He went back to work for the railroad and retired after 38 years of service.

He married the Love of his Life, Lucile W. Draper in 1951, they settled in Phoenix, AZ

Lucile had 2 young daughters, Ruth Marie and Charlotte Pipestem from a previous marriage. Vernon helped raise and teach them as his own, especially Ruth Marie, as she stayed in Arizona and Charlotte moved away.

This 1st Union lasted until Lucile’s death in 1988, reaching over a span of 37 years of marriage and was together for over 40 years in total.

Vernon 2nd Union, he married his second wife, Letha McDade in 1989. This union lasted until her death in 2000, reaching over a span of 11 years together.

Stepdaughter, Ruth M. Talywood, Step Grandchildren, survives Vernon: Jerro Smith (Pamela), Lester Talywood (Tracey) and Nancy Talywood (Jonathan) from 1st Union. Step grandchildren: Elisabeth Marion and Stephanie Landry from 2nd union.

Numerous Great Grandchildren and Nieces and a nephew. His Best Buddy: Tricia Beach.

Vernon loved his garden, raised livestock animals, and enjoyed numerous dogs, his beloved Katie. Loved to work on any kind of cars and trucks, grilling /cooking and enjoyed family get togethers. Enjoyed relaxing at his cabin in the Christopher Creek area, which he built in the early years. Loved to fish and camp, Loved nature.

Vernon was always a very fit, strikely handsome man with the bluest eyes and awesome smile and everyone enjoyed their conversation and stories with him.

Vernon had such a gift: his great way of making friends, his great sense of humor and an easygoing personality. Always had a kind word for everyone and was a true gentleman. He loved the old country western music and loved to dance.

Vernon touched many lives and was loved by all.

The recent years, his home was at Morningstar assisted living in Phoenix, Arizona.

He blossomed there, doing many activities such as the symphony, attended plays, movies and other entertainment. He received so much loved attention and care during this time. The staff loved him and he loved them back with his debonair personality. His favorite phase was…Thank You!

Services: Resthaven Mortuary and Memorial Gardens, 4310 East Southern Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85042 Friday May 13, 2016 at 9:30 am in the Chapel. Burial to follow with Military honors at Memorial Gardens. Reception to follow after the burial. Condolences card can be sent to: Vernon Cole 2925 East Flower Street Phoenix, AZ 85016