Vernon Battle

In Loving Memory of Vernon Neal Battle (June 27, 1927 – 2024)

On June 27, 1927, amid the jazz-filled nights of the Roaring Twenties, a baby boy was born to Bertram and Ida Battle. They named him Vernon Neal Battle. He was a naturally quiet observer, a deep thinker, and a man who cherished solitude. He developed an early love for reading and had a sharp intellect that later led him to study the stock market, a lifelong interest that reflected his analytical mind and patience.

At a young age, Vernon answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army Air Corps. Throughout his time, he was instilled with a profound sense of discipline, responsibility, and unwavering patriotism. Though his service was cut short due to an injury, he gained values that shaped every aspect of his life. Including integrity, resilience, and dedication.

Following his service, Vernon moved to Los Angeles, where he built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. He spent five years working for General Motors before transitioning to the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Building Trade Division, where he contributed his skills and knowledge for many years.

His faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted member of the historic Second Baptist Church, serving as a Deacon, assisting the Media Ministry and acting as Treasurer of the Deacon Board. He was a member of the Power of Prayer Group at the San Gabriel Christian Center, always leading with humility and devotion. His leadership extended beyond the church, as he also served as President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Washington-Lincoln Alumni Association of Dallas. Furthermore, he organized booths for the AIDS Walk for Minority Women and Children. 

Above all, Vernon was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His final wish was to be baptized in the Jordan River, as a testament to his deep and abiding faith. In 2019, he fulfilled that dream, embarking on a journey that brought him profound peace.

Vernon Neal Battle lived a life of faith, honor, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of love for his beautiful wife Dicksey Marie, coupled with 9 bonus children, a myriad of nephews & nieces, 9 grandchildren and 6 great grand children. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and teachings will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.