Vernon Eugene Mitchell was born May 17, 1921 in Sherman, Texas, son of Oscar Wesley Mitchell and Mabel Beam Mitchell. His maternal grandfather was Philip G. Beam, an early farmer in Sherman. He paternal grandfather, James R. Mitchell, was also an early settler. Vernon passed away at home Friday, May 15, 2009 at the age of 87 years, two days short of his 88th birthday.

Vernon lived in Sherman all of his life, attending Sherman public schools and graduating in 1939. He attended Texas A & M and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering in 1949. During World War II he served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant in the battle of central Europe. Following his graduation from Texas A & M he worked at the Texas Highway Department as a Design Engineer until his retirement in 1983.

He felt privileged to have two loves during his lifetime. He married the former Ethelyn Louise Barnes in 1942, who preceded him in death. Then on October 3, 1999 he married his present wife, Helen Jean Black Jones and they enjoyed over nine years together. He was also blessed with one daughter, Marcia Ruth Stroud of Benton, AR, her husband and three grandchildren, who all loved their "Pawpaw" deeply. When he married Helen, her family became much loved additions to the family. Vernon loved all of his family and was a blessing and encouragement to all of them throughout his whole life.

Vernon was a life-long member of the Church of Christ, having worshipped at the Walnut St., Grand Ave., Dewey Ave. and Parkview Churches of Christ. He was intrumental in the beginning of the Dewey Ave. congregation and was among the men who "turned the first shovel of dirt" for the new building. He served for many years as a Bible teacher, deacon, and long-time elder of the church.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Harold Mitchell of Sherman, and his first wife, Ethelyn.

He is survived by his present wife, Helen, daughter Marcia Ruth and husband Brad, grandchildren Jessica, Bonnie, and Joseph; and Helen's family, Donice Jones, Mark Jones and wife Leah, plus grandchldren LeeAnnna Freeman and husband Steven, Meredith Jones and Marshall Jones.

Visitation will be Sunday from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at Waldo Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 18, 2009 at 10 AM at Parkview Church of Christ, 815 S. Dewey. Beryl Mackey and Wilburn Grisham from Parkview Church of Christ will officiate and the burial will follow at West Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Vernon's beloved family members, sons-in-law, grandsons and nephews.

The online guest register can be signed at www.waldofuneralhome.com.