STOW - John Vernon Bailey Sr. was 84 when he went home to be with the Lord on Friday, October 16, 2026.

He leaves behind his wife, Veronica, and children Melissa Sullivan (Duane), Johnny Bailey (Pam).

Vernon and his family first found Salvation through the Lord Jesus at a Grace Cathedral outreach service and have been faithful members for over 50 years.

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Vernon and Veronica moved to Ohio in 1991, so they could be closer to their home church, Grace Cathedral.

He was an usher for Grace Cathedral over 40 years.

Vernon and his wife were lovingly cared for in his daughter and son-in-law’s home for 6 years prior to him requiring additional hospice care. While in his last days of care, Vernon told the nurse that he had his ticket to ride the train. They asked where he was going. He said he was going home. They asked him where is home. He said “I am going to Heaven.”

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 11am-12pm at Grace Cathedral-Akron, 1055 Canton Rd., Akron, Ohio 44312, with a service following at 12pm.

Interment Hillside Memorial Park.