Ronelva Jeanne Vernon, 101, passed away on August 19, 2024, in Longview, WA.

She was born on August 3, 1923 in Virden, Illinois, the daughter of James and Mary Fairfull.  “Ronnie” grew up in Detroit and graduated from Mackenzie High School in 1941.

Ronnie’s military service was one of her most cherished accomplishments.  Eager to serve her country during World War Il, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at age 21 and served as a Corporal in Arlington, Virginia.   During this time, she met her husband of 60 years, Frederick Vernon.

Ronnie had many interests during her long, active life.  She enjoyed shopping and had a keen eye for bargains.  She was adept at using a computer and played online games.  A great passion of hers was cooking.   She was famous for her baked spaghetti, banana bread and Christmas cookies.

Ronnie was preceded in death by her husband, Frederick, and son-in-law, Barrette Turner.  She is survived by her daughters, Linda (Rob), Barbara (Jeff) Meek, Diane (John) Purcell, Kristina (Barrette) Turner, and son, Frederick; grandchildren, Sara (Luis), Alex, Sonnet (Greg), Jennifer (Chris), Heidi (Brian), Jonathan (Catherine), Jeffrey, Marc (Ashley), Karrigan, Catherine, Amanda, and Chase; great grandchildren, Ted, Rafael, Scarlett and Emmett.

An interment ceremony will be held on September 12, 2024 at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.  A memorial luncheon is planned for noon on September 15, 2024, at Barton Hills Country Club,  730 Country Club Rd.  Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Donations in Ronnie's memory can be made to the Honor Flight Network.

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