David Vernon Campbell of Orange, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Elizabeth Campbell and three daughters, Beth Mathews and husband Leonard, Dana Miller and husband Ken, and Margaret Bell and husband James. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Campbell Miller, Travis Bell, Laura Vickers, Julie Westervelt, and Kristi Mathews. He has enjoyed his four great-grandchildren, Hazel, Justin, Jonathan, and Laura.
Originally from Canada, Vernon grew up in Oakfield, New York. After graduation from Oakfield High School and obtaining an Engineering degree from Yale University, Vernon served in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant j.g. aboard the U.S.S. Perkins during World War II. He spent his entire professional career as an engineer and supervisor at the DuPont Sabine River Works plant in Orange.
Vernon was very active in the Orange community where he lived for the past sixty years. He served as a member of the Orange Lions Club where he proudly operated the string pull at the annual carnival for over 40 years and had perfect attendance as a Lion for 56 years. He was also a very active member and served as an officer of Golden K Kiwanis Club, Friends of Orange Public Library, and Orange Community Concert Association. He was especially active and involved in the First United Methodist Church of Orange.
Vernon will best be remembered by those who knew him as a man who cared for others in every possible way. His love of mankind led him to take meals and tapes to shut-ins, drive the ill to doctors appointments, visit the sick, and assist with any details, large or small, which made the lives of others easier.
He will best be remembered by his family as a wonderful father, devoted husband, loyal Christian, and friend to all he encountered.
A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church sanctuary on Friday, May 7, at 10:00 a.m, under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will be at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service.
Memorials may be sent to the First United Methodist Church of Orange.