Vernon Sandifer

Vernon Sandifer, a beloved figure in the community, has passed away at the age of 84 in Ruleville, Ms. Born on October 26, 1938, in Sumner, Ms, Vernon's life was a testament to love and dedication.

Vernon began his career as the Bus Mechanic for West Tallahatchie School District before moving to Drew, Ms. There, he worked for Carpenter Ford Motors and later joined Lyon Clinton Chevrolet. After retiring from his professional endeavors, Vernon opened Sandifer's Salvage Mechanic shop and Sandifer Bait Shop, where he became known as "The Mayor of Drew". His hard work and passion for his craft earned him widespread respect in the community.

Vernon's commitment to excellence extended beyond his career. He pursued an education at West Tallahatchie Schools and instilled the value of learning in those around him.

Loved by everyone he encountered, Vernon was known as a loving husband to his surrviving spouse, Joann Ransom Sandifer since their marriage on October 26, 1959. Their bond was unbreakable and served as an inspiration to those who witnessed their unwavering devotion.

As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Vernon created cherished memories with his family. Vernon is preceded in death by his parents Arnie and Vaudie Sandifer, Brothers Richard and Paul Sandifer, and Daughter Martha Manus. He is survived by his wife Joann Ransom Sandifer,  sons Jerry Sandifer (Debbie) of Merigold, Ms; Jimmy "Timbo" Sandifer (Laquita) of Boyle, Ms; Stevie Glenn Sandifer of Drew, Ms; daughters Helen Yarbrough (Jeff) of Arab, Al.; Betty Jean Hamilton (Jimmy) of Gunnesville, Al.; sisters Linda Black of Cleveland; Sandy Sandifer Winters of Cleveland; Margaret Ann Campbell (Larry) of Kissimmee, Fl.; grandchildren Christopher Sandifer, Stephanie Perkins, Ethan Sandifer, Hope Sandifer, Gavin Sandifer ,Matthew Stone ,Jeremy Self ,Jonathan Self , and Lisa Burchfield; great-grandchildren Blake Sandifer, Landry Sandifer, Ryder Sandifer, Jasper Perkins, Jessie Perkins, Cameron Stone, Felicity Stone, Dalton Stone, Landon Stone, Jayden Stone, Peyton Self, Jaxson Self ,Brianna Burchfield ,Cheyenne Burchfield ,and Bubba Burchfield.

During his lifetime, Vernon had a wide range of hobbies and interests that brought him joy. He loved to fish and hunt in the great outdoors. Additionally, he enjoyed tinkering with cars and trucks and was known as a jack of all trades.

Vernon's life also included a commitment to serving his country. He courageously served in the national Guard Reserve until he was called up to Ft Polk in Louisiana in 1961. Through his military service, Vernon demonstrated an unwavering dedication to protecting and serving his nation.

The memory of Vernon Sandifer will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. His warm smile, kind heart, and compassionate spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Services honoring Vernon's life will be held on August 11, 2023. A visitation will take place from 12:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home located at 3463 West Highway 8 in Cleveland, Ms. This will be followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at the same location. The final ceremony will be an interment will follow at Drew Cemetery in Drew, Ms. Noodles Ferguson will officiate the services.

Pallbearers will be Chris Sandifer, Blake Sandifer, Cameron Stone, Jonathan Self, Jeremy Self, and Bryan Burchfield. Honorary Pallbearers are Ethan Sandifer, Jake Perkins, and Bubba Burchfield.

Vernon's legacy lives on through his surviving family and friends who carry his love and wisdom with them every day. As they mourn his loss, let us join together in celebrating his remarkable life and the impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.