Richard D. Vernon

Richard Dennis Vernon, 70, of Greer, SC died unexpectedly in his home on November 14, 2023 leaving a void in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

Born in Greenville, he was a son of the late John Bryan Vernon, Jr. and Ina Smith Vernon.

Richard graduated from Clemson University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. His successful 40 year career encompassed Dow Chemical, Fluor Daniel, and Palmetto Management & Engineering. He was admired by many of his colleagues for his integrity, work ethic, and vast knowledge of all disciplines.

As an avid sports fan, Richard was very proud to be a Clemson Tiger, loved the Green Bay Packers and admired all of the greats who played on the Boston Garden’s parquet floor. Win or lose, Richard remained loyal to his teams. Richard and his family were regular season ticket holders of Clemson football for over 30 years. They traveled to Atlanta to see Boston Celtics’ games and even made the trek to Lambeau Field to watch the Packers play. Richard’s teams quickly became Graham’s teams. As a child, Graham asked many times to go to the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame whenever Brett Favre would be inducted. In August of 2016 Graham’s request was granted, even though Richard had just had a hip replaced in April and was scheduled for a knee replacement after the trip, Richard, Marlene & Graham were in Canton, Ohio to see Brett Favre’s acceptance speech.

Richard and his family joined Taylors First Baptist Church on Easter Sunday of 1992. He attended Sunday morning services and was quick to share his faith with family, friends, neighbors and “his people” at work. In 2011, God gave Richard a Christmas miracle. He was always willing to share how God saved his life. He truly loved the “Hymns of the Faith” and was often moved to tears even though these hymns were well known. Sitting on the balcony of their beach home in North Myrtle Beach, he could never understand how anyone could not believe in God.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John Bryan (Johnny) Vernon, III.

Richard is survived by his wife of 35 years, Marlene; his son, Graham and daughter-in-law, Vanessa, and quite honestly, the best thing that ever happened to him after he retired, his precious granddaughter, Emma. Also surviving him are his “chosen family,” Jason and Christy Plumier and their children Madison & Kenzie; Ralph and Lisa Vaughn; Benjamin & Taylor Vaughn and their son, Duncan. Richard is also survived by one nephew, John Thomas Vernon, of whom he was extremely proud, and many cousins who became supportive friends and confidants.

There is no way the family can express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have felt over this week. Please continue to pray for them as they learn to live without their Soulmate, Dad, and Pops.

In celebration of Richard’s life, friends and family are invited to attend the visitation, which will be held at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Downtown, on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, from 12:30 pm until 1:45 pm with a service to follow at 2:00 pm in the chapel. Officiated by the Reverend Doctor Jimmie

Harley, this service will pay tribute to Richard’s memory and the profound impact he had on the lives of those who knew him. Burial will be held in Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In memory of Richard, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Taylors First Baptist Church with a designation to Reach Partnerships, which will impact America with the Gospel.

Condolences or your favorite memory of Richard may be shared with the family by clicking the “Share a memory/Leave a Message” below; as we remember him for the lasting legacy he leaves behind.