Vernon Hysaw Sr.

Vernon Lee Hysaw, Sr. was born February 22, 1936 in Luling, Texas to Lewis and Alzora French-Hysaw. He was the second of ten children born into this great family. Vernon was raised surrounded by his brothers Joe, Charles, MacArthur, Earl, and James; sisters Virginia, Gwendolyn “Gail”, Maxine, Anniezell; and a half-sister Maurice Briscoe. Vernon received his primary education in Luling, Texas. In 1953, he and the family relocated to Denver, CO. Although still a teenager, Vernon quickly found employment with The Swift Meat Packing Company, where he worked for many years.

When Vernon was (in his twenties) he met and married Ida Mae Simmons. To this union, two sons were born: Vernon Jr and David Lewis. Vernon was also the proud father of Rita Roberts and Edward Calbart. When he met and married his soul mate, Ella Marie Walker, he was further blessed to add her six children to his life: Shelia Brown, Genterry Brown, Kent Sharp, Clint Walker, Theodis Walker Sr. and Margaret Whitmill.

Vernon was an avid music aficionado and collector, especially of the Blues. He collected thousands of records over the years, and he would listen to them for hours. Although Alzheimer’s and dementia had taken their toll during the last days of his life, he still enjoyed his music and the company of his family and friends. He was still full of joy and laughter, and never complained.

Vernon passed peacefully from this life on July 2, 2019. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Ella Marie; brothers, Joe (Gloria) Hysaw and Charles (Betty) Hysaw; sons, Vernon Jr. and David Hysaw; daughter, Rita Roberts; granddaughters, Jamari and Jaelen; and a host of other friends and relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis & Alzora French-Hysaw; son, Edward Calbart; brothers: Earl (Elizabeth) Hysaw; MacArthur (Monica) Hysaw; and James Hysaw; sisters: Virginia (Harrison) Hurd; Maxine Cooper; Gwendolyn “Gail” James; Anniezell Hysaw and Maurice Briscoe.

Memorial Service : July 12, 2019 11:00 am

King Baptist Church
3301 Ivy Street
Denver, CO 80207