Vernia Sommerlot

February 18, 1920 - April 12, 2022

On April 22, 2022, at age 102, Vernia Albertina Sommerlot was welcomed into heaven by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Vernia was born in Swede Home, Osceola, Nebraska, to John Albert and Josie Amanda Jones. She was born and raised on the family farm and looked fondly on her childhood as a farm girl. After graduating high school, Vernia attended Osceola College and obtained a teaching certificate. She taught in a one room school for a year then moved to San Diego, California where she met Russell George Sommerlot. They were married six months later and were happily married for 49 years. Vernia loved being a mother and she was a wonderful mother. She was very involved in her children’s lives; volunteered as a classroom assistant, PTA, a brownie and girl scout leader and boy scout troop leader, to name a few. She lovingly supported her children in all of their endeavors. Vernia retired from the San Diego Board of Realtors as manager of the Multiple Listing Service, having worked her way up from being a part-time office clerk. She was respected by all who worked with her. Vernia and Russell retired to their mountain home in Descanso, CA, where she was involved with quilting and sewing groups, volunteered at the senior center and was known for her homemade pies that were sold at fund raisers at their church. Vernia was a woman of God. She was always active in church, serving as secretary, treasurer, Sunday school teacher and superintendent, participated in women’s bible study and fellowship groups and sang in the choir. Vernia was an elegant lady who saw the best in everyone. She was always kind, grateful, giving and put herself before others. As a gracious hostess, she and Russell enjoyed hosting many family and church events in their home. She was predeceased by her parents, husband, sisters Lillian and Irene and brother Philip. She is survived by daughter Ruth (Steve), son Robert (Virginia), grandchildren Rob (Netty) Sommerlot, Tom (Deborah) Sommerlot, two grandsons Isaiah and Jeremiah Sommerlot, six step-grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren, one step-great-great grandchild, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Vernia was dearly loved my many and is greatly missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, thoughtfulness and faith in God. We are grateful to all who so lovingly cared for Mom, especially Dr. Honsinger who provided outstanding care for Vernia over many years, and his supportive staff; loving caregivers Yulanda King and Linda Mariea, Bonaventure staff and the wonderful support of Asante Hospice. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 2pm, at Grace Lutheran Church, 660 Frances Lane, Ashland, OR. Memorial gifts may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, Asante Hospice or St. Jude’s Hospital.