Vernon Wallace

On October 18, 1960, the heavens opened up, and Vernon Lamar Wallace was born in Philadelphia, PA, to William Wallace Jr. and Gwenitta Wallace. Vernon was the first of their children, a cherished gift that brought joy to his family.

Vernon received his education within the Philadelphia public school district, graduating from Simon Gratz High School in June 1979. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served honorably for 10 years, rising to the rank of Petty Officer First Class. His first assignment was aboard the USS John F. Kennedy, an aircraft carrier, and he concluded his naval career on the USS McCandless. Throughout his service, Vernon developed the skills to operate some of the largest vessels in the Navy, which became a testament to his dedication and expertise. He also traveled extensively, including to Europe and Africa, earning various awards for achievements in pipe blowing and knot tying. His service to his country reflected his strong character and unwavering sense of duty.

After leaving the military, Vernon settled in Orlando, Florida, in 1990. There, he worked in several management positions before rediscovering his passion for driving. He obtained his CDL and began working for National Freight Inc., traveling across the United States and Canada. After five years, health challenges prevented him from continuing long-distance driving. He then transitioned into a management role within the children’s mental health field.

As his health continued to decline, Vernon moved back to Pennsylvania in September 2014 to be closer to family. Upon his return, he took on the role of helping his family with various tasks, whether taking his grandchildren to football practice, running errands with his niece and nephew, or offering a helping hand whenever needed.

In 2015, Vernon began attending Finland Mennonite Church with his brother. Through the relationships he formed there, he rediscovered his love for bowling and joined the Earl Bowling League in Telford, PA. It was also at Finland Mennonite Church where Vernon accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized on July 17, 2016.

In January 2021, Vernon faced significant health challenges, including the partial amputation of his right leg. He spent several years in and out of an inpatient rehab facility. Despite numerous challenges, Vernon was able to regain his independence and became the second resident at Hankin Manor, a senior apartment complex in Phoenixville, PA, on July 1, 2024.

From here, Vernon gained his permanent residence with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on the morning of March 10, 2025. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him, but we find comfort in knowing that he is now in the arms of the Almighty.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” – John 14: 1-3 (NIV)

Vernon’s memory will be cherished by many, including his beloved daughter, Vernita Doram (Dwayne); his parents, Reverend William and Gwenitta Wallace; his grandchildren, Keyshaun Jones, Nasir Jones, and Tymir Jones; his great-granddaughter, Sanaa Amira Jones; his siblings, Cheryl Tracy Whitfield, and Darryl Wallace (Eleanor); his niece, Natasha Hall (Jahza); his nephew, Isaac Wallace; his grandniece, Wisdom Hall; his grandnephews, William Osei Jr, Jahza Hall Jr.; his aunts, Leatrice Caldwell (Pastor Sam), Candace Martin (Stanley); his uncle, Ceasar Wallace (Arlene); cousins, and a host of friends who deeply loved him.

The family draws comfort from the words of Scripture, which remind us of the promise of eternal life. As Vernon now rests with the Lord, we hold onto the hope that one day we will be reunited.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NIV)

Vernon will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the lives of those he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

In loving memory,The Family