Afton Wayne Verner's Obituary
Afton Wayne Verner of Richardson, Texas passed away December 15, 2017, at the age of 95. Afton was born January 31, 1922 in Meadow, Texas and was the son of Thomas Edward and Gracie Gage Verner. On June 6, 1941, Afton married Duane Bell Verner.Afton embodied all the characteristics of a gentleman. He was tough, yet had a heart of gold. Afton was charismatic, a man of integrity, intelligent, and a true friend. Duane was truly the love of his life. He was a family man who took great pride and joy in his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He never lost his childlike spirit and sense of humor. The beauty lied in his perfect imperfections.Afton was a part of “The Greatest Generation”. He was a WWII Veteran serving in the United States Army Air Corps; stationed in the South Pacific from 1943-1946. Afton began his college degree prior to his enlistment in the U.S. Army. After his service to our country he completed his accounting degree at Pepperdine University. He went on to teach at Eastern New Mexico University before he began his lifelong career in sales and sales management. Notably, he was a Regional Manager for the Fuller Brush Co. Ultimately, as a result of his great work ethic, determination, and discipline, he started his own business, Verner Chemical Company, and retired at the age of 89. He was an equestrian enthusiast, avid tennis player, and a member of the Oaklawn Club in Hot Springs, Arkansas where he enjoyed horse racing.Afton was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Edward & Gracie Gage Verner; an infant sister, Anita Verner; sister, Wanda Ashburn; brother, Boyce Verner; sister, Kathryn Smith; and brother, Darrell Verner. He is survived by his wife of 76 years, Duane; children, Von (Julia) Verner; Glen (Jane) Verner; Jerry (Mimi) Verner; Randy (Dawn) Verner; Marjean (Mike) Pocock; twelve grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; and sister Carolyn Gregg.Visitation will be held on Friday, December 29th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Restland Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be take place on Saturday, December 30th at 11:00 a.m. at Waterview Church of Christ, Richardson, Texas, officiated by Robert K. Oglesby.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to “The Oglesby Foundation” at Waterview Church of Christ. Pallbearers: Brandon Verner, Stuart Verner, Hunter Verner, Logan Verner, Burton Verner, and Christopher Pocock.
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