Vernon Kearney

Vernon was born on June 18 in Newark, New Jersey, the son of Talmadge and Evelyn Kearney (nee Mangum). He was the fourth of seven siblings. A talented football player, Vernon graduated from Central High School in Newark in 1980, then joined the United States Marine Corps that same year. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, where he became an avid boxer and won several medals in exhibitions. He served for about 10 years, achieving the rank of sergeant until he was honorably discharged.

Vernon married Wanda Lajeane Williams (nee Owens) on April 9, 1993, at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada, sparking their deep affection for the neon city. For 31 years, he shared a life full of laughter and adventure with his beloved wife and their blended family.

Vernon enjoyed a long, industrious career as a manager in retail sales for various companies, including Circuit City, Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Toys “R” Us, where his humor and tough-love endeared him to his coworkers. He often hosted celebratory barbecues for his coworkers when he wasn’t vacationing with family on the Vegas Strip. After eight years as Assistant Canteen Chief for Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, he retired on June 29, 2024.

Vernon was predeceased by his parents, Talmadge and Evelyn Kearney (nee Mangum), and adored brother, Omar. His memory is carried forward by his beloved wife, Wanda; eldest daughter, Natoyah Kearney; son, Joshua Omar Kearney, and his children, Shauday, Joshua, and Simona; and youngest daughter, Desareé McKinney (nee Williams), and her husband, Kevin, and their daughters, Halaina and Octavia. He is also remembered by his bonus daughters Michelle, Leonor, Nika, and Melissa, and his many siblings, nieces, nephews, and bonus grandchildren Briana and Tamiya.

In his spare time, Vernon loved scenic drives along San Diego’s many beaches, playing basketball, and being a superfan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.