Vernon Ray McCain

Vernon Ray McCain, 85, of Leachville, passed from this life Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, at his home. Son of the late Arville and Geneva Redding McCain, he was born in Leachville and raised in Benton Harbor, Mich. He had been back in Leachville for over 40 years. Vernon was a master mechanic and was of the Pentecostal faith. He loved cars, carpentry, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Zula McCain, a sister, Edna Lents, and a son-in-law, Mark Gibson.

Survivors include one daughter, Cheri Gibson of Paragould; four sons, Troy McCain of Leachville, Jerry Don Martin (Carla) of Walnut Ridge, Greg Martin (Joy) of Paragould and Todd McCain (Tanya) of Leachville; two bonus children whom he raised, Jonathan Martin and Justin Martin; eight grandchildren, Lonnie Cole Jr., Tanya Cole, TJ McCain, Corey McCain, Madison Martin, Danielle Martin, Dominique Martin and Little Jerry Martin; one sister, Loretta Ethridge (Rick) of Dowagiac, Mich.; his fiancee and caregiver, Lilly Wood (Ma Lilly) of the home. Vernon also leaves 12 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Leachville with Bro. Alan Austin officiating. Burial will follow in the Leachville Cemetery. Pallbearers are Cheri Gibson, James Miller, David Clay, Dewayne Lents, Andrew Henry and Greg Martin. Honorary pallbearers include Bobby Austin and Jackie Eddings. The family will receive visitors Thursday from 1 p.m. until service time. Friends may sign the online guest register at www.HowardFuneralService.com.