Bobby O'Neal Vernon

Born June 19, 1943, Bobby O’Neal Vernon of South Boston, Virginia, passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025. A lifelong resident of South Boston, he graduated from Halifax County High School in 1961. Following high school, Bobby proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969. Bobby regularly attended Grace Baptist Church.

After his service, Bobby returned to Halifax, where he worked in various roles throughout his career, ultimately retiring from Presto. In his retirement, he enjoyed pursuing his passions, including golfing at numerous courses. A lover of Bluegrass music, Bobby was a long-time attendee of the Galax Fiddle Convention, where he celebrated his love for the genre.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, James and Helen Vernon of Alton, VA, and his sister, Dollye Sotelo of California. He is survived by his daughter, Brigette Vernon of Newport News, VA; two nephews, Michael and Chris Evans of California; and his best friend and lifelong companion from his Army days, Dave Dunkin, with whom he shared a deep bond for 58 years. The family would also like to thank Brigitte Gil Lacy and Tiffany Leath for their assistance with caring for Bobby.

A service celebrating Bobby’s life will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Grace Baptist Church with Military Rites, followed by a private graveside service at Cedar Grove UMC Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, one hour prior to the service at Grace Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to SPCA Paws & Claws, P.O. Box 14, South Boston, VA 24592, in honor of Bobby O’Neal’s lifelong love and care for animals, especially his cherished dogs, Prissy, Gizmo, and Buddy.

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com or by visiting their Facebook page.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave, South Boston, VA.