Vernon Lee Gott

Vernon Lee Gott, 88, of Jonesboro, passed away on August 13, 2025, at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital. He was born on November 14, 1936, in Hannibal, Missouri, to Melvin and Dorothy (Barfield) Gott.

Vernon honorably served his country in the United States Navy for 21 years, achieving the rank of Chief Warrant Officer before retiring with honors in 1976. Known for his dedication and discipline, he carried those same values into his civilian life. He enjoyed maintaining his health and fitness, fishing, and pursuing his many entrepreneurial endeavors.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Richard Gott; and two brothers, Melvin and Orville Gott.

Vernon is survived by his beloved wife, Joan (Whitten) Gott, whom he loved and adored; his children, Vernon Gott and wife Darlene Gott, RaNae (Gott) Hill and husband Dale Hill, Gene Gott and wife Candy Gott, Cynthia Boyd and husband Robert Boyd, and Kevin Richardson and wife Amber Richardson; daughter-in-law, Dolly Mitchell. 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Vernon lived by the motto, “Be all loving and all giving,” which he showed to all his family and friends. He gave life lesson advice for generations to come.