Edith (Marion) Shoffner Vernon

Edith (Marion) Shoffner Vernon, 88, of Lynchburg, VA, died on July 17, 2025. She was born in Norristown, PA, on August 9, 1936, to Francis Lewis and Marion Boyd Shoffner. “Edie” grew up in Buena Vista, VA, graduating from Parry McClure High School in 1953. That year she caught the eye of Joseph Henry Johnson “John” Vernon of Lexington, VA, while at McCrumbs Drugstore. Edie and John were married on March 17, 1957. Later that same year, she graduated as a Registered Nurse from the former Lewis-Gale Hospital School of Nursing in Roanoke, VA.

Her 62 years of marriage to John brought her many happy years of church and community involvement in Bullock Creek, SC, Winston-Salem, Charlotte and Belmont, NC, and Staunton, VA. Fond memories and friendships from each congregation remained important to Edith throughout her life. In 2003, John and Edith moved to the Summit Retirement Community in Lynchburg, VA, where family and both old and new friends enriched their final years. Edith was a member of Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church.

Edith enjoyed reading, quilting, drives in her beloved mountains, crossword puzzles and sudokus, ACC basketball and British TV. She loved planning trips and traveling. Adventures later in life included a hot air balloon ride and multiple cruises. She will be remembered for birthday cards and handwritten notes, fondness for mouse figurines and pear art, and participation in many PW Circles, card groups, and book clubs over the years. Above all, Edith delighted in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Edith was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John. She is survived by three children: son James J. “Jim” Vernon (Martha) of Forest, VA, daughter Sue V. White (Rich) of Greenwood, IN, and daughter Mary Ellen Vernon of Raleigh, NC. Additionally, she is survived by 13 grandchildren, their spouses, and 9 great grandchildren.

Burial will take place privately. A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church in Lynchburg, VA, on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Dave Roberts presiding. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund. Cards to be shared with the family can be sent to Mary Ellen Vernon at 1402 Governors Court, Raleigh, NC, 27604.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com