Bob devoted his working life to the steady, hands-on craft of building, spending many years as a contractor with ATF Construction Company—“all the family,” as it was known. In the last years of his career, he worked with SHAW Construction and TIYA at Ft. Benning until his retirement.
A Vietnam War veteran, Bob carried that chapter of his life with quiet dignity. Away from work, he found real enjoyment in the things that captured his interest and imagination: antiques, Star Wars memorabilia, comic books, and countless other collectibles gathered over time. In earlier years, he also loved fishing and hunting, pursuits that suited his appreciation for the outdoors and simple, well-spent days.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank S. Vernie and Mary Ann Heisey; his brother, Michael Vernie and two brother in laws, Johnny A. Baxley and Ronald A. Baxley. He is survived by his daughter, Melissa A. Vernie and son in law William F. Cushist; his grandchildren, Ava, Ayden and Alex Cushist; his caregiver, Mary Ellen Freeman; his brother, Frank D. Vernie; sister in law, Sherrie Baxley; sister, Michelle Vernie and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Graveside Service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 in the Chapel of the Pines Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dementia Society of America https://dementiasociety.charityproud.org/Donate or any of their favorite charity.
