Raymond Paul Vernon
September 24, 2025
Resided in: Wichita, Kansas
Raymond Paul Vernon, 76, died Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
Memorial Service will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (1101 N. River Blvd., Wichita, KS 67203).
Ray had a wide and varied working career. His first job was farm work, followed by selling shoes, and pumping gas. After graduating from the University of Nebraska he spent three years teaching junior high school. His next career move was to Ryder Truck Rental where he worked in various management positions for over seven years. He then became interested in finance and was hired by GE Credit Corporation. Finally, he settled into his favorite career of all time: working with retirement communities which included Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Via Christi Senior Services, and Wesley Towers.
A participant in many sports over the years, Ray enjoyed being active. He was a faithful member of the YMCA for over fifty years. On most days he could be found swimming laps at the Downtown Y at 4:30 a.m.
After retiring, Ray really enjoyed volunteer work. He helped people with their taxes through VITA and Tax-Aide and served on the Board of Senior Services, Inc. His most recent passion was helping people navigate Medicare benefits.
But most of all, Ray loved God, his family, his church community, and his friends.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Lauren Albertus and Louise Emma Vernon. He is survived by his wife, Vicki Lee Vernon; daughter, Michaela Dawn Vernon of Wichita; son, Paul Richard Vernon of St. Charles, Missouri; sisters, Donita Mains, Karen (Rick) Dolezal, Chandra (Jim) Mason; brothers-in-law, Richard (Judy) Hill, Roger Hill; many relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials been established with Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (1101 N. River Blvd, Wichita, KS 67203), and Senior Services, Inc. Meals on Wheels Program (200 S. Walnut, Wichita, KS 67213).
Arrangements in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.
Services
Memorial Service: Friday, October 3, 2025 10:00 am
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
1101 N. River Blvd.
Wichita, KS 67203
316-263-0872
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Raymond Paul Vernon 's name.
Meals On Wheels c/o Senior Services of Wichita
200 S. Walnut Street
Wichita,
KS
67213
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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Ray was my Chief Executive Officer for many years at Wesley Towers! He was the best boss I ever had and guided and trained me during my years as VP of Administrative Services to make me better personally and professionally.
As if yesterday, I remember one Saturday morning bumping into Ray & Vicki at the Farmers Market. With a twinkle in his eye, Ray said he’d been thinking about angels. And he asked me if I knew what angels wore in heaven. I wondered whether he was serious or just teasing me. He kept such a straight face. I had to ask myself, how do I respond…with a joke or a serious (as his face) thoughtful reply? I’d never been asked or thought about an angle’s wardrobe. Vicki was no help as she stood silently next to Ray with a twinkle in her eye too. Oh how I laugh every time I remember that “Ray” encounter. May good memories help you through this difficult time.
Ray was a wonderful leader. I had opportunity to know and work with him when I was on the Board at Wesley Towers as a United Methodist Church representative. Ray had a great capacity to listen, problem solve and lead with a spirit of wisdom and compassion. He lived a full life. Prayers are with his family at this time.
Rev. Rick Saylor
I knew Ray when I worked at Senior Services of Wichita and he was on the Board of Directors. He was able to listen to a problem and very quickly come up with good advice. His work on the Board was greatly appreciated as was the many hours and dedication he gave to helping seniors during his career working and volunteering.
I served on Wesley Towers board of directors and on Wesley Towers foundation and various committees over the years Ray was the Executive Director. He was capable and very professional in every respect. His highest priority was always for the residents. He moved the executive office from the administrative building to the Towers building in order to be in the middle of resident active. He was a hands on manager involved in every activity. He was a great manager and a delight to work with. He was also a good friend and after his retirement we continued to stay in touch via email. He humor will be missed.
Sincerely, Laurel Alkire, Karen Dao, Chris Heiman and all the clients and staff of Senior Services of Wichita.
I worked with Ray through the SHICK program at K-State Research and Extension. We were always happy to see Ray’s smiling face come through the door! He brightened all our days, including the customers he helped with their Medicare questions. We always knew his customers would leave well informed and no longer concerned about their situation. He would visit with all of the lobby employees while waiting for his next appointment and keep us laughing. He will be greatly missed! Prayers for the family.
Ray was the CEO of Wesley Towers while I worked there. He was great to work with.
I remember putting on a fund raiser for the Alzheimer’s Association at the Hutchinson Zoo one year. I was surprised and so grateful when Ray showed up to help me set it all up. It was nice for him to do that, he worked right along with me.
Just a few days ago he was on my mind; wondering how he was doing. So sad to see this.
So sorry for your loss.