Vernell grew up with 3 brothers, Marshall, Leeroy, and Anderson, and 2 sisters, Jennie, and Sarah. In 1981 Vernell followed her brother Marshall to the Monterey Peninsula, when he attended the Naval Post Graduate School and later became a commander.
Vernell never left the Monterey Peninsula area. She became a resident of Seaside. She later met her future husband Earlee Stephens of Mississippi. To that union a son, Vincent Antonio Stephens, was born.
Vernell was a Social Worker for the Monterey County Department of Social Services. After retiring from the county, she was later employed at the department of Social Security. Vernell was also an entrepreneur and a notary public.
Vernell was active in her community. She was a member of the Sea-Mont Memorial Auxiliary #8679, and a member of Retired Military Service Center (RMSC), both in Seaside. Vernell was a woman of many talents. Most of all she was a loving mother.
Vernell leaves to cherish her memories, her son, Vincent Antonio Stephens, and a host of other relatives and dear friends.
