Mr. Vernon James Johnson

VERNON JAMES JOHNSON was born on November 22, 1925 in Baltimore, Maryland. He departed this life on September 19, 2010. He was the third of twelve children raised in the loving home of Joseph and Georgine Johnson. At an early age, Vernon became a member of St. Pius Catholic Church and continued to practice his faith throughout his life. Vernon attended Baltimore City Public Schools, and was drafted into the Army at the age of eighteen. He proudly served during World War 11 and was a member of the Buffalo Soldiers in the 92nd division. When Vernon returned from duty at the end of the war, he returned to work at the Schulderberg-Kurdle Meat Packing Company where he worked for over 43 years before retiring. He was a dedicated employee who never missed time from work unless there was an emergency and never because he was sick. He was a man who truly believed that a commitment was meant to be honored and not taken lightly. Early in life, Vernon joined the Eaquires. This men’s social organization still exists today. Over the years, the organization has held fundraisers, sponsored trips and donated funds to local charities in the city. Vernon enjoyed the time he shared with the gentlemen in this group. He especially enjoyed the trips to Atlantic City. As his health declined he was unable to attend the meetings, but often talked about the good times they shared. In 1949, Vernon married Shirley Ward and together they raised four children, Larry, Christine, Deborah and Wanda. Shirley departed this earth on April 12,1997 and Wanda on January 7, 2002. Shirley and Vernon were a true team. He often worked two jobs to support his family, and she dedicated her life to raising the children and keeping a loving home. Vernon was a father for all seasons. He always found time to spend with his children. Whether he was outside playing football with his son, taking his daughters shopping, or simply taking one of them to Lexington Market on Saturday morning, these were special moments that will always be remembered and cherished. Throughout his life, Vernon exemplified a life of honesty, commitment and love. He was unselfish in all that he did. He had a high expectations for all of his children and made it clear to them that the best was always the norm. He loved his family and always placed them first. In his neighborhood he was known as the “go to man.” Neighbors often knocked on the door to ask for assistance and he would always help out, if he could. When many of the young boys walked through the neighborhood, they would often stop by the front steps and seek and receive his words of wisdom. He always had an opinion to share or he would just take the time to listen to what was on their mind. Vernon was the glue that held the family together. He was an exceptional man, brother, father and grandfather. Each and every day, he will be missed. The memories he leaves behind will always be cherished. Vernon leaves to cherish his memory: one son, Larry Ward, Sr.; two daughters, Christine Watson and Deborah Carter; two sisters, Doris Johnson; and Georgine Francois; two brothers, Bernard Johnson and Robert Johnson; ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, two son-in-law, one daughter-in-law, nieces, nephews, a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Mr. Vernon James Johnson

November 22, 1925 - September 19, 2010