Vernon Lee Howard, 67, a former resident of Grant County and resident of Sunset, Texas for 21 years is now safe at his eternal home in the arms of Jesus. Vernon died at his home in Sunset after a long battle with pancreatic cancer with his loving family taking care of him on June 19, 2023. Vernon was born August 9, 1955 in Salem, New Mexico in his grandparents little adobe house. Dr. Vetter from Hatch, NM was there to help with the arrival. His parents were Venita (Goff) Howard and Bennie Lee Howard.

Vernon graduated from Cobre High School, Bayard, NM and from Western New Mexico University, Silver City, NM. He worked for Sharon Steel Mine and Porter Oil. He also had his own carpet cleaning business before moving to Texas to work with family at The Tin Star in Decatur, TX. His last job was at the Decatur WalMart.

Survivors are his sisters Linda Howard Isbell (Randall) Arenas Valley, NM, LaVeda Howard Kernek (Jon Alan) Sunset, TX, Beth Howard, Bayard, NM, brother Bennie Earl Howard (Zona) Battle Ground, WA. Nieces Darla Cordell, Stacie Booth, Tina Howard, Shawna Rogers, Crystal White, Nora McCullough, Christy Dawn Reader, nephews Brian Songer, Aaron Kernek, Chantry Howard, BJ Howard and Jay Rogers. All of his special great-nieces and great-nephews.

Vernon's parents and one brother Buddy Frank Howard preceded him in death.

Vernon's final resting place will be at Memory Lane Cemetery, Silver City, NM next to his parents.