Vernon Parker Sr.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, December 22, 2020  at 1pm at Coleman & Hicks Chapel.

Vernon Lee Parker Sr. was born August 30, 1944 in Norfolk, VA

Vernon Lee Parker Sr. spent his childhood in Norfolk, Virginia. He moved to Spokane, New Jersey in the 70’s where he married the love of his life and had a son, Vernon Lee Parker Jr. Unfortunately, the marriage was short lived, and Vernon relocated to Hammond, Indiana for work in the early 80’s. There Vernon spent the rest of his life, devoted to God and music. Everyone loved Vernon, as he gave the best smile in the world that would brighten up the darkness. You could not help but give a big smile back.

Vernon experienced major health issues that landed him in the nursing home, a place Vernon never wanted to be. But God had another plan for Vernon when he met La’Tisha Kendle, a Health & Social Advocate. Vernon expressed his desires to reside at home and die peacefully at home but did not have any family left and had not heard from his son in over 20 years. Vernon and La’Tisha spent lots of time together and La’Tisha’s family began to also spend time with Vernon. The family decided that Vernon was now a part of their family and wanted to care for him for the rest of his life. La’Tisha and her Mother, Sheila, promised Vernon he was going home and will never come back to the nursing home! Vernon spent his last couple years with his new family at home, celebrating holidays, birthdays, many soul food dinners, and an abundance of unconditional love until he passed peacefully.

On Monday morning November 9, 2020 Vernon, aka Smiley, gained his wings and became a guardian angel to his newfound family. He spent his life doing exactly what he wanted to do up until his last moments. Vernon is devoted Baptist, who loved the Lord with all his heart and soul.

Vernon has joined his parents and siblings in glory. Surviving, with fond remembrance of Vernon is his newfound family, Greylon and Sheila Hervey of Michigan City, Indiana; LaTisha Kendle, Elijah Kendle, Yosiah Kendle and Kyrie Kendle of Michigan City, Indiana; Natasha Kendle and Anayiah Kendle, Aubrey Kendle, of Michigan City, Indiana; Greylon Kendle Jr. and Maria Hervey of LaPorte, Indiana; Devonte Hervey and Danielle Walker of Michigan City, Indiana; Justin Hervey of Michigan City, Indiana; Brenden Augustyniak of Michigan City, Indiana; also (prayerfully) surviving is Vernon’s long lost son Vernon Lee Parker Jr.