Vernon B. Whitis

Vernon B. Whitis, 89, of Somerset, Kentucky departed this life on Sunday, June 14th, 2020. He was born in Pulaski County on March 8th, 1931, to Oather B. Whitis and Clara (Doolin) Whitis. Vernon was a retired farmer and businessman and was a Veteran of the United States Army, having served in the Korean War. He was a former employee of Goldenberg Furniture, owner/manager of House of Carpet and Vernon Whitis Trucking, and a founding member of the Wagon Wheel Investment Group. Vernon was also a former member of the Somerset Kiwanis Club, a former member of the Science Hill Town Board, a former member and deacon of Northside Baptist Church and a member of Eubank Baptist Church. He also had a passion for horses and horseback riding and was a lifetime member of the Lake Cumberland Riding Club.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Laura Kate Whitis; his parents Oather B. and Clara (Doolin) Whitis; a brother, Edward Whitis; and a sister, Anna Mae Hood.

He is survived by his two sons, Jimmy Whitis and his wife Tammy, and Doug Whitis and his wife Jackie; five grandchildren, Eric Campbell of Lexington, Ashley Whitis Gates and her husband Chris of Somerset, Josh Whitis and his wife Nancy of Science Hill, Chad Whitis and his wife Tiffany of Somerset, and Amber Whitis McKinnery and her husband Jon of Somerset; nine great-grandchildren, McKayla Gates, Hayley Gates, Kade Slusher, Carson Slusher, Landon Scott Mobley, Calan Gage Long, Bentley Reece Gates, Ansley Jay Whitis, and Austin Jon McKinney. He is survived by his sister, Shelby Jean Estep and her husband Clinton. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and a host of friend to mourn his passing.

Deeply loved and respected by his family and adored by his grandchildren, Vernon was a true patriarch. His walk with Christ was reflected in the guidance he often gave his children and grandchildren.

Vernon was a resident of the Highlands Place Assisted Living in Somerset for more that five years where he received loving care and made many special friends. In the last couple months he was compassionately cared for by the Rockcastle Rehabilitation Center in Brodhead, Kentucky.

A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at the Chapel of Morris & Hislope Funeral Home with Bro. Scott Hughes and Bro. Shelby Reynolds officiating.

Military Honors will be conducted by American Legion Post # 38.

Burial will be in Eden Cemetery.

Visitation will be after 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests Gideon Bibles placed in his memory.

Morris & Hislope Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at: www.morrisandhislope.com