Gary Vernon

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gary K. “Butch Vernon passed away September 20, 2025, at Mercy Hospital Palliative Care in Joplin after a brief illness. He was born August 15, 1939 In Oklahoma City, OK to the late O.M. and Beulah Thompson Vernon. Butch was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father and grandfather.
 

He graduated from Joplin High School in 1957. He married Sharon O’Farrell on May 19, 1961 in Miami, OK. She survives at the home.

He is survived by his children: daughter Vikki Nestel and Mark of Overland Park, KS, son, Gary K. Vernon II and Aimee of Bella Vista, AR, daughter, Kelli Vernon and Wayne Felter of Joplin, MO. His beloved grandchildren, Abigail Vernon of Springdale, AR and Grayson Vernon of Bella Vista, AR. His sister, Jo Ann Lowe of Joplin, MO, brother Ron Vernon and Pat of Mustang, OK and his special nieces and nephews.

Gary worked at Tri State Motor Transit for 38 years beginning at the front gate then working his way through the ranks to Vice President of Operations. His dedication and hard work were hallmarks of his career.

A passionate advocate for golf, Gary served as president of the Joplin Golf Foundation for many years. He was a volunteer golf coach for MSSU 14 years supporting the mens team through two MIAA championships. He was volunteer president for the Joplin Jr. Golf program, where he introduced countless children to the game of golf and fostered a love for the sport in the community. In recognition of his outstanding contributions Gary Was honored with membership in the Joplin Golf Foundation Hall of Fame on April 20, 2019.







Butch was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Joplin, he was a lifetime member of the Joplin Elks lodge #501 and a member of the American Legion post 0013. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him for his kindness, enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to others.

Graveside services will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11 am at the Osborne cemetery. Following the graveside services later in the evening the family will gather with friends at Parker Mortuary on Joplin Ave from 5 to 7 pm to gather and share stories and say goodbye.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to Cerebral Palsy of Tri County Missouri or St. Judes Children’s Hospital of Memphis, TN.