Vernon Humphreys Obituary

Vernon Ray Humphreys

May 14, 1933 -

December 8, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Vernon Ray Humphreys, 92, of Johnson City, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 8, 2025 in the comfort of his own home. Vernon was born on May 14, 1933, in Johnson City, Tennessee, to Frank and Pauline Humphrey. He lived a long, humble, and hardworking life marked by devotion to his family, faith, and a deep love for the outdoors.

Vernon retired from American Limestone after more than 35 years of dedicated service as Superintendent, officially retiring in 1998. Outside of work, he found joy in simple, meaningful pleasures like fishing, farming, sharing stories about "the old days," riding motorcycles with his buddies, caring for his Tennessee Walking Horses, enjoying good food, and spending unhurried time with the people he loved.

To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was the very best kind of Papaw, patient, playful, wise, and always ready to teach them something new. Whether showing them how to bait a hook, work the farm, or appreciate the beauty in everyday life, Vernon's steady presence shaped their childhoods in lasting ways.

Vernon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-four years, Gail E. Humphreys, who passed away in 2011; his parents, Frank and Pauline Humphrey; his brother, Raymond Humphrey; his sister, Thelma White; and his sisters-in-law, Lynn Webb and June Townsend.

Vernon is survived by his special niece and nephew, Debbie Sutherland and her husband Mike, and Wallace Carr and his wife Vicki, all of Johnson City; sister-in-law, Patsy Slagle and her husband Tom of Elizabethton; four grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Heather Butler (Brett), Mitchell Carr (Emily), Grant Sutherland (Laura), and Morgan Carr, as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, a host of great-grandchildren, and many friends who adored him and will forever cherish the memories made with him.

Vernon's family finds deep comfort knowing he is now reunited in heaven with his beloved Gail and other cherished loved ones, celebrating in the presence of Jesus. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, faith, hard work, and steadiness will continue in the many lives he influenced.

The funeral service for Mr. Humphreys will be held at Morris-Baker on Thursday, December 11th at 7:00 PM, with Pastor Donnie Humphrey officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00–7:00 PM prior to the service.

A graveside committal service will be held on Friday, December 12th at 1:00 PM at Hamlett-Dobson Memorial Park, where Vernon will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Gail. Attendees are asked to meet at the cemetery no later than 12:45pm.

Pallbearers will be Mike Sutherland, Grant Sutherland, Ridge Sutherland, Richard Watson, Tyler Osborne, and Leon Hutto.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the friends, neighbors, and caregivers who supported Vernon in his later years. A special thank-you is given to the wonderful nurses and staff at Amedisys Hospice, Nicole, Crystal, Vanessa, and Kim for their compassionate care over the last six months.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Humphreys family. (423) 282-1521