JAMES EDWARD VERNON

April 10, 1949 - March 17, 2021

James Vernon was an incredibly kind, thoughtful, loving man. Everyone who met him or knew him was touched by his generous heart and kind, sweet spirit.

James was born on April 10, 1949 to Louie B. Vernon and Mary Edith Williams in Tulsa Oklahoma. James moved to Bakersfield at the age of 12 with his mother in 1961. James managed and owned many wrecking yards. Eventually, he opened Action Towing. He met and married Kathy Miller in 1967 and had three children, Keith, Kevin, and Mary.

James always had a love for racing. He raced and supported the Bakersfield Speedway for many years. James also raced at Mesa Marin, along with his son, Kevin and daughter, Mary. Following the closure of Mesa Marin, he helped develop and open Kern County Raceway Park. His Grandson, Racin Vernon carries on the racing tradition.

He met his life partner, Pamela Leon, in 1991. They lived a beautiful life together with their blended, loving family for almost 30 years.

James fought a hard battle against cancer that eventually took his life. He took his last breath surrounded by a room full of loving family and friends. He will be terribly missed by all who were lucky to know him.

He is survived by Pam Leon, Keith Vernon, Kevin Vernon, Mary Conley, Aaron Conley, Randy Anderson, Nicole Aldridge, Eric Aldridge, Erica Davis Brian Davis, Erin Leon, and Mindi Killman. His grandchildren are Brittany Vernon, Racin Vernon, Austin Conley, Ashton Conley, Andrew Conley, Payton Aldridge, Eric Aldridge, and Bradley Davis. His great grandchildren are Brayden Judd, Brody Eggenberg, and Londyn Eggenberg. His siblings are Charlotte Clark, Beverly Howell, Delores Logan, Ramona Gee, Regina Gann, Roberta Parmley, Ruth Mangrum, Jewell Duncan, Rita Dimmet, Nina Rose, Deni Sandoval, and Lane Rowan Mende.

James is preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Vernon and his parents, Louie B. Vernon and Edith Payne.

James was blessed with many nieces and nephews and other family members who meant the world to him.

James resides in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him. A celebration of life will be held for James Vernon on Saturday April 10, at 1933 Event Center, 7900 Downing Ave, Bakersfield Ca, 93308 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to Hoffman Hospice for their wonderful care. www.bakersfield.com/obits