Vernelle Fisher was born on August 31, 1928 in Rae MO to Paul and Alice Fisher. She had 2 brothers. Cabell, 15 years older and Paul, 7 years older. Their father left the family when Vernelle was only 5 years old. Although life was on the poor side, she was surrounded by love with her mother and her childless doting Aunt Emma and Uncle Louie.
Vernelle grew up in Shenandoah IA in a tiny carriage house behind her aunt and uncle’s home. She recalled that although it had running water it didn’t have hot water or a bathroom. One of her memories she told was when her mother sent her to the store with a nickel to buy a loaf of bread. After the purchase there was a penny left. Instead of bringing back the change, she bought a penny’s worth of candy. She recalls vividly her mother’s look of disappointment, but never scolded her.
Vernelle was a happy girl with friends and did well in school. In high school she worked for the local newspaper as their society editor. She graduated valedictorian.
She married Willard Ray (Bill) Brazeal in 1947 after graduating from High School.They moved to Columbus NE to join Bill’s brother in the furniture business. Linda Rae was born to them in 1949. Later the family moved to Alliance NE to open another furniture store. Barbara Jo was added to the family in 1952, Alyce Ann in 1955 and Gloria Kay in 1957.
Vernelle had several jobs to help supplement the family income. One she remembered well was working at the local bank as a teller. She was always involved in church and women’s activities and she and Bill sang in choir. Bill was fortunate enough to be one of the first to work in the cable TV business and the family moved to Scottsbluff NE. at this time
She began taking college classes. In only 18 months Bill was promoted and uprooted the family once again. This time to Denver CO. Vernelle had the task of packing up the house and four girls to make a life changing move. Vernelle was gifted with a loving and cheerful character. Her girls remember how silly she could be. The house was always full of the girl’s friends and boyfriends. She hosted women’s groups in her home as well as entertaining Bill’s colleagues. She was a born hostess and the home was a welcoming place for friends, neighbors and even strangers.
She was actively involved in Christian Women’s Ministry, Job’s Daughters and sang in a trio as well as driving everywhere and attending every special program in which each daughter was involved. As her daughters grew she began working again to supplement the income for braces, four daughters clothing and impending college plans. This time in the medical/dental field. Vernelle was the heart and soul of the family as Bill’s work demanded so much travel. Vernelle did it all to keep the family running smoothly.
After retiring, the family built a mountain home known as “The Rock”. This would be the family gathering place for many celebrations, especially Christmas. She and Bill moved to Steamboat Springs in 1982.Vernelle made the move with equanimity and enthusiasm. They moved Vernelle’s mother into their home where she cared for her mom until her death.
After a final retirement, Bill and Vernelle moved back to “The Rock”. This time for good. Vernelle was still involved in Christian Women’s Club and very active in their small mountain church. She and Bill also spent much time visiting children, grandchildren and taking foreign country trips.
After Bill’s death in 1996 Vernelle spent even more time with her daughters and grandchildren and even treated some or all of her family to fun trips, including Germany, Israel, Egypt and a whole family Alaskan cruise.
In 2000 Vernelle met a wonderful gentleman named Loring Corkum. They were married in April of 2001. Again, Vernelle continued the travel bug. They bought an RV and tried to fulfill her dream of seeing the 48 contiguous states. Vernelle and Loring enjoyed 18 years of marriage, enjoying family and travel until her illness. She was moved into a group home when her family believed that she needed more care than the family could provide. She was reborn into heaven to be with her Savior on February 27, 2019.
She is survived by Loring Corkum, her husband, 4 daughters, 3 son-in-laws, 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.
To God be the Glory. A memorial will be held at First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes on March 7,2019 at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes: Missions 9535 E. Riggs Rd Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 480-895-1088
A life well lived, a Mother who loved and a family blessed-what a lovely legacy. We know she has given you all a relationship with God and a sense of family strength. May you find peace in your memories and treasure the family stories.
A life well lived, a Mother who loved and a family blessed-what a lovely legacy. We know she has given you all a relationship with God and a sense of family strength. May you find peace in your memories and treasure the family stories.