DR. WILLARD VERNON

Rev. Dr. Willard Vernon:

Dr. Willard Vernon was born on August 5, 1918 in Roseland, Louisiana to the late Rev. and Mrs.
James Robert Vernon and Pearlie G. Briggs
Vernon. He was one of eight children, three girls
and five boys.
“Bill”, as he was called then was educated in the
elementary and high schools of Tangipahoa Parish.
He received his B.S. Degree in Vocational
Agriculture from Southern University in Baton
Rouge, Louisiana and has done further study
toward a Masters Degree in the same area of
education at L.S. U. and U.S.L.
Rev. Vernon was also recognized as one of
Southern University finest tennis players, which he
also brought back with him and taught in the
school system, where he was known for his great
athletic abilities.
While serving in the United States Army, “Bill” was known for his beautiful tenor voice he
used to sing and perform in the military Glee Club. Also while serving in the military and
most important of all, he was called by God to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a dying
world. Dr. Vernon was the Pastor of three great churches, Little Bethel Baptist Church in
Amite, La., New Jerusalem Baptist Church, Clifton, La and Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Mt.
Hermon, LA.
With all three projects and programs and still found time to serve his community. He served
a as teacher in the public school systems for 24 years, President of the Parish Teacher’s
Assoc. a Coach, FFA Leader, Chairman of the Christian Minister’s Relationship, Founder
of the Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Franklinton, Louisiana.