Vernon Cox Willis

Vernon Cox Willis, 85, of Waterview, Virginia, passed away on October 13, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and stories that his family and friends will cherish for years to come. Born on December 10, 1940, Vernon was the son of the late William Linwood Willis and Virginia Pearl Willis.

Vernon worked for many years at C&P Telephone Company before retiring. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, especially fishing, boats, and spending time on the water. There was nothing quite like a good day of fishing, whether the fish were biting or not.

If you knew Vernon, you knew he was truly one of a kind. He was stubborn as they come, never afraid to speak his mind, and usually convinced his way was the right way. He had a quick wit, a playful sense of humor, and a special talent for giving people a hard time, all while making them laugh. And, of course, we can’t forget his charm. Vernon was quite the ladies’ man and never missed an opportunity to flirt, especially if there was a pretty waitress nearby. He had a way of making people smile, and you never quite knew what he might say next. Beneath that stubborn streak and mischievous grin was a man whose presence will be deeply missed. His family will forever treasure the funny stories, the memories made, and all the little things that made him who he was. He may have been set in his ways, but there was never any doubt that life was a little more entertaining with Vernon around.

In addition to his parents, Vernon was preceded in death by his brother, Francis A. Willis.

He is survived by his children, Sherry Morey (Bill) and Vernon “Todd” Willis; his grandchildren, Rickey Wright, Marina Wright, Zachary Wright, and Holly Willis; and his great-grandchildren, Bryleigh Lynn, Serenity Lynn, Sophie Anna, and Mason James; sister, Katherine “Kitty” Shiflett (Roger); brother, Kenneth “Kenny” Willis (Vicki), along with extended family members and friends.

Although his family must now say goodbye, Vernon’s larger-than-life personality will live on in every story retold, every laugh shared, and every memory that brings a smile. His stubborn ways, his jokes, and that unforgettable charm will never be forgotten.

Here’s to calm waters, endless fishing, and plenty of pretty ladies in Heaven. And knowing Vernon, he’s probably already telling someone how to do things his way.

Forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Bristow Faulkner Funeral Home, Saluda, Virginia. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at New Hope United Methodist Church, 2489 Lewis B. Puller Memorial Hwy, Saluda, Va 23149. Interment to follow at New Hope United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather at Nick’s Spaghetti & Steak House in Saluda, Virginia, one of Vernon’s favorite places to eat, to continue celebrating his life.

Please join us for good food, shared memories, laughter, and stories as we remember a man who was truly one of a kind. In keeping with the casual nature of the gathering, guests are kindly asked to cover the cost of their own meals. We hope you will join us as we honor Vernon in a place he loved, surrounded by the people who loved him. Forever in our hearts, until we meet again.

Faulkner Funeral Homes, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel, Saluda is assisting the family.