Return to Station Listings

James "Jim" J. Vernon

Born: 10/5/1940
Died: 10/24/2023
Age: 83
Community: Durand, MI

James J. Vernon, known affectionately as Jim, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2023. Born on October 5, 1940, in Flint, Michigan, to the late John and Frances (Smith) Vernon, Jim was a beloved figure in his community and family. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church in Durand, burial will follow an Oak Grove cemetery in Owosso. The family will receive friends at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel on Thursday from 2:00pm-4:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm. The rosary will be prayed at 7:00pm at the funeral home.



Jim graduated from Hoover High School in Flint in the class of 1958. He married the love of his life, Carolyn Ellen Stevens, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Flint on June 2, 1962. Together, they built a beautiful family, which included their children Brian (Stephanie) Vernon, Michael (Jennifer) Vernon, Cheryl (Steven) Pierce, and Denise (Robert) Dennison.



Jim was a proud employee of General Motors Truck and Bus, where he dedicated 48 years of his life before retiring. His passion for cars was evident in his work and his personal life. He was a hard worker, always determined to provide the best for his family.



In his spare time, Jim loved woodworking. His creations were a testament to his skill and dedication. But above all, Jim loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His grandchildren, Matthew Vernon, Kara (Bradley) Gear, Jessica Spangler, Kyle David Pierce, Katelyn Marie (Jerry) Miller, Breanna Pierce, and Brittany Pierce, brought him immense joy. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Jerry, Chanel, and Abrina, and was excitedly awaiting the arrival of another.



Jim is survived by his wife Carolyn, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his siblings, Joseph Vernon, David (Patty) Vernon, Larry Vernon, and Susan (Tom) Moore.



Jim was predeceased by his parents, and his sister, Helen.

James J. Vernon was a man of integrity, hard work, and love. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.



Memorial contributions on Jim's name can be directed to St. Mary Catholic Church



Online condolences, pictures, and memories can be shared at WatkinsFuneralHomes.com

Copyright © 2025 Direct Obits, LLC

  Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes - Durand Chapel
501 N. Saginaw St.
Durand, MI 48429

Phone: (989) 288-3106

Web Site: http://www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com

Get a Map to this location...

Visitation
Date:   10/26/2023
Time:   2:00 PM
The family will receive friends at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel on Thursday from 2:00pm-4:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm. The rosary will be prayed at 7:00pm at the funeral home.
 
Funeral Service
Date:   10/27/2023
Time:   11:00 AM
 
Location:   St. Mary's Catholic Church
700 Columbia Dr.
Durand , MI 48429

Get a Map to this location...

Official:  

Return to Station Listings