Vernon Bradford Bonney was called to his heavenly home on August 26, 2024 at the age of 97. Born on October 26, 1926 in Princess Anne County to the late John H. and Lacy Bonney. Vernon was preceded in death by his loving and devoted wife of 68 years, Earlene; his daughter, Debbie B. Nedera; and his sisters, Barbara (Bobby) Baynor and Nellie Bonney.
Left to cherish his memory are his children Vernon (Brad) Bonney, Jr. (Caroline), Cathy Alexander (Doug); son in law, Santos Nedera; five grandchildren, Angelique Thames (Eric), Douglas Alexander (Ashley), Kristen Bailey (Walter), Bradford Bonney (Caitlin), Clarke Bonney; nine great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.
After being drafted into the Army and serving in World War II, he returned home to marry his High School sweetheart, Earlene. As a graduate of Maury High School and The College of William and Mary he became President of Shriver Gas Conversions working nationally and internationally for many years before opening a company in Elizabeth City, NC, The Bradford Corporation. He was an avid tennis player, a charter member of Cape Henry Tennis Club, a long-standing member of Tabernacle United Methodist Church and a member of the American Institute of CPA’s.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 from 6-8 pm at Smith & Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
The burial service will be conducted at 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, VA, 23502.
A Celebration of Life will be conducted on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Tabernacle United Methodist Church, 1265 Sandbridge Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, with fellowship following.
We would like to thank Commonwealth Senior Living @ Georgian Manor and Traditions Hospice for all their love and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tabernacle United Methodist Church/ Heritage Fund or a charity of your choice.
