A trailblazer in Tangipahoa Parish the story of James Robert Vernon

James Robert Vernon
Photo Courtesy
 Gyniss Vernon Gordon

On the evening of July 27, 1957, the figure of silence, often personified as an angel, entered the home of Reverend James Robert Vernon and, with a touch as cold as the stillness it brought, sealed his lips in eternal repose. He was the devoted and loving husband of Pearley Briggs Vernon, and in that moment, his soul departed from this realm of human struggle—a world marked by sin, sorrow, and pain—ascending to a place of eternal peace and rest.

The life of Reverend James Robert Vernon was one that left a lasting and unwavering impression on those who knew him. Unlike some lives that may disappoint or require a reassessment of character over time, the impression he made upon first meeting remained steadfast until the end of his days. From a young age, he embraced Christianity, joining the Mount Canaan Baptist Church, where he was baptized by his father, Reverend Robert Vernon. For over sixty-one years, he dedicated himself to the Master's service, selflessly offering his time, counsel, and resources to support endeavors that he believed would contribute to the greater good. 

His generosity and commitment to helping others exemplified a life lived in service to his faith and his community.Reverend James R. Vernon was a man of selflessness, which led him to seek companionship to share in the blessings of his life. This sentiment guided him to marry Pearley Gertrude Briggs, with whom he built a family. From their union, eight children were born, and he devoted himself to being a loving and faithful husband and father. He worked diligently to ensure his family's comfort and happiness, instilling in his children the values of loving and fearing God. He emphasized that embracing Christianity was among the most significant endeavors in life. Those who came to know his children would recognize how deeply they upheld and remembered the lessons he imparted to them.

Picture: Reverend James Robert Vernon

Photo Courtesy of Glyniss Vernon Gordon