Vernon Richard White

Vernon Richard White, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, gently left this world on January 28, 2026, in Skiatook, Oklahoma, at the age of 88. Born on January 14, 1938, in Canton, Oklahoma to George Oliver and Leona Bertha (Weber) White, Vernon was a man who lived a life filled with love, dedication, and a passion for the things that brought him joy.

Vernon’s early years were spent in Vinita Oklahoma where his adventurous spirit led him to anything outdoors. Hunting and marksmanship were some of his natural strengths. His work on the farm with his father and mother brought out an interest in all things mechanical and he had an innate understanding of mechanics. These interests were accompanied by a natural skill in working with his hands. His skills in working with wood and metal, and his ability to draw designs and plans led him to craft beautiful leather,wood and metal to create belts, holsters, knives, guns, carvings, furniture and his favorite subject of all things flying. His model airplanes were works of art that were made with love and the aeronautical knowledge that he used in his career and this hobby.

Vernon’s years were spent in Vinita, Oklahoma, where he completed his education and graduated in 1957. His adventurous spirit led him to the Spartan College of Aeronautics, a stepping stone that fueled his lifelong fascination with airplanes. Vernon was an accomplished private pilot owning and flying multiple airplanes and restoring his 1946 Ercoupe. This passion would grow further as he built a distinguished career with American Airlines, where he served as an airline mechanic and inspector until his retirement in 1996. Throughout his career, his attention to detail and commitment to safety earned him great respect among his peers and contributed to countless safe journeys for travelers.

In addition to his professional achievements, Vernon served proudly in the National Guard, a testament to his dedication to his country. His presence extended far beyond the workplace and service; he embraced a variety of hobbies that enriched his life. He cherished gardening, finding peace and satisfaction in nurturing plants and watching them flourish. He enjoyed playing card games with friends and family, often turning a simple evening into a cherished memory. Perhaps most notably, Vernon had a deep love for flying remote-controlled airplanes, a hobby that allowed him to combine his passion for aviation with playful creativity.

Vernon's heart was filled with love for his family. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Kerns McCray White. He was a proud father to three children: Vernon Christopher White and his wife, Tonya; Angela Elaine Stout and her husband, Chuck; and Allison Eileen Long and her husband, Jeff. Each of his children carried a piece of Vernon in their hearts, and he delighted in being an active part of their lives.

As a grandfather, Vernon found immense joy and pride in his eight grandchildren: Mitchell White, Kristen Snyder, Tyler Howard, Alaina Wingo, Dillon Wingo, Benjamin Stout, Brett Stout, and Collin Stout. His legacy continued with nine great-grandchildren: Charli Stout, Chase Stout, Lily Ann Howard, Trueman Howard, Amelia Wright, Lila Snyder, Buck Snyder, Jackson White, and Camilla White, who will forever remember him as a source of love and inspiration.

Though Vernon leaves behind a beautiful family, he is preceded in death by his parents, George and Leona White, his beloved wife, Lillie Ellen White of 62 years, his brother, Stanley Romain White, and his sister, LaDonna Fern Weaver. Their absence is felt deeply, but the love they shared continues to resonate through Vernon’s family and friends.

A visitation with family will be held on February 2, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Sien-Shelton Funeral Home Chapel in Skiatook, OK. Vernon’s life will be celebrated on February 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM during a funeral service at the First Assembly of God in Collinsville, OK.

Vernon was a devoted Christian man and a member of the Collinsville Assembly of God Church, where he served as an assistant commander of the Royal Rangers boys’ group.

Vernon Richard White will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his contributions to aviation, and his zest for life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and a profound sense of duty to those he loved. Though he has taken flight to a higher realm, his spirit will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.