Nilda A. Vernon

Nilda A. Vernon, age 66, of Cassopolis, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026. Nilda Avila Vernon was born on August 2, 1959, in Manila, Philippines, to Ladislao and Leonora (Tabuzo) Avila. She was raised with a strong foundation of faith, family, hard work, and devotion to those she loved. Nilda earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Centro Escolar University in the Philippines, reflecting her determination and commitment to her education and future. Nilda was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was known for her quiet strength, kind heart, generosity, and selfless nature. Her life was centered around her family, and she found great joy in caring for others and sharing in the everyday moments that made life special. On September 27, 1985, Nilda married Gilbert Vernon and moved to the United States to begin their life together. They shared 36 years of marriage until his passing on November 21, 2021. Nilda was a devoted wife, and her love and dedication to Gilbert remained unwavering throughout their life together. Nilda was a loving mother who devoted herself to raising her three children, Annah, Joseph, and Joel. She took great pride in her family and created a warm and nurturing home filled with love and care. Later in life, she returned to the workforce and worked for several years at Coca-Cola before retiring to spend more time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed crocheting, cooking Filipino food, baking, and spending time in nature. Nilda also had a special love of flowers. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, Emmaleigh Vernon, Bennett Dulak, and Joseph J. Dulak, her favorite people. They brought her great joy, and she cherished being a part of their lives. Nilda was preceded in death by her father, Ladislao Avila, and her husband, Gilbert Vernon. She is survived by her mother, Leonora (Tabuzo) Avila of Chino, California; her children, Annah (Joseph) Dulak of De Pere, Wisconsin, Joseph J. Vernon of Eau Claire, Michigan, and Joel L. Vernon of Cassopolis; her grandchildren, Emmaleigh Vernon, Bennett Dulak, and Joseph J. Dulak; her siblings, Leonardo, Edwin, Helen, Henry, Teresa, Marilou, and Ladislao Jr., along with their spouses; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends Ken and Amy Royce. Nilda’s family and close friends will gather privately at a later date in Piqua, Ohio, to celebrate her life and cherish the memories they shared with her. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bowerman Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Nilda will be lovingly remembered for her devotion to her family, her gentle spirit, and her generous and caring heart. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.