Vernon Orval Easley

Vernon Orval Easley was born on Saturday, December 29, 1923, and passed away Monday, January 23, 2023. He was born on his family's farm in Portales, New Mexico, to parents Simon Peter Easley and Sarah Elizabeth (Daniel) Easley. He was the youngest of five siblings.

In 1943, during his first year of college in Portales, he volunteered to enter the US Navy's officer training program to serve his country during WWII. After several training assignments he graduated as an Ensign and attended Radar School. From there he was assigned as Communications Officer on a Destroyer Escort ship in the South Pacific, where he was posted until 1946. After the war, Vernon continued in the Reserves, ultimately serving in the military for 20 years.

After the war, Vernon attended UNM on the GI Bill and earned a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. He also met and married his wife, Betty Kessinger. After college, Vernon worked for PNM in Albuquerque and in Deming, NM, before moving to Fort Worth, TX, to work for Convair Aircraft. During this time, Vernon and Betty's three daughters were born. Vernon longed to get back to New Mexico's sunshine and took a job at Sandia National Labs in Albuquerque. The family settled into a new house, where he and Betty lived for 57 years. He stayed at Sandia Labs, eventually being promoted to Department Manager of Plant Engineering, and retired after 31 years. Vernon spent his retirement years investing in real estate projects throughout Albuquerque. He enjoyed driving around the city viewing properties and keeping current on real estate and business trends.
Vernon and Betty were active members of St John's United Methodist Church for over 60 years. He served on many committees and work projects. He was generous with his time and resources and made attending church every Sunday a priority for the family.

Vernon was the rock and firm foundation of his family. He was a good provider and outstanding husband, father, grandfather, and neighbor. He took his responsibilities seriously; his family knew they could rely on him for guidance and advice. He supported Betty in obtaining her bachelor's and master's degrees as her children grew and encouraged his daughters to work hard in school and college. When his grandchildren were born, he was an active presence in their lives. He was also willing to lend a hand to friends and family when they needed help. In the last year of his life, Vernon looked back with a positive attitude and remarked on what a blessed life he had. Together over their lifetimes, Vernon and Betty's examples of loving kindness and charity inspired those they met.

Vernon was preceded in death by Betty, who passed away Friday, January 13, 2023. They were married for 72 years. He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Wilson, Barbara Spates (Jim), and Sara Perovich (Bob); as well as 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service for Vernon Easley is planned for Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John's United Methodist Church, located at 2626 Arizona St. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the St. John's UMC Foundation or another charity of your choice in honor of Vernon Easley.