Vernon Lee Lusk

Vernon Lee Lusk was born November 1, 1938, in Batesville, Arkansas to Garcia William Lusk and Estes Rose Wetherford Lusk and passed away peacefully on March 25, 2024 at home surrounded by his family. In 1940, his family moved to Lancaster where he attended school and helped on his family farm. Vernon quickly developed an interest in cars and was a natural, self-taught mechanic. In 1961, Vernon decided to enlist in the United States Army where he was stationed at Ft. Hood in Kileen as a repair mechanic. His service career was cut short when he received a letter from his mother asking him to come home to help provide for his family. He received an honorable discharge. Upon coming back to Lancaster in 1962, he started working for Edwards Ford House as a mechanic. Shortly after, he met Shirley West at the local Dairy Queen. They didn’t date long and surprised everyone one night at a party when Vernon announced that the “red head” was his wife. In 1967, Vernon started volunteering as a fireman for Lancaster, and in 1972 he officially began his firefighter career when the city finally established a full-time department. His career with the department spanned over 30 years with multiple advancements. His positions included Fire Engineer, Fire Lieutenant, and Captain. He retired as a Battalion Chief. Not only was Vernon a public servant by profession, but he was also a selfless provider to his family and mentor to his friends. Known as “Big Daddy” by his grandkids, he was always giving of his time and talents and the first to lend a helping hand. Family always came first for him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Garcia Lusk and Estes Rose Lusk; his brothers, Junius Lusk, Bob Lusk, Orvia Neal Lusk, and Weldon Lusk; and his sisters, Betty Troxell and Nelda Pynes. Vernon is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Lusk; his beloved dogs, Buddy and Trixie; his sister, Linda Lusk; his daughters, Tricia Douglas and Tracie DeBolt and their husbands Mitch Douglas and Darin DeBolt; his grandchildren, Kevin Grounds and wife Brittany, Jordynn Winders and husband Tanner, Danielle DeBolt, and Samantha DeBolt; his great-grandchildren, Kody and Khloe Grounds, Karsynn and Tynslee Winders. The family will receive friends from 10:00am to 12:00pm on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Lancaster. A celebration of Vernon’s life will begin immediately following at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to James L West Day Care Program in Vernon’s name. https://www.jameslwest.org/donate-now/

Vernon Lee Lusk

November 1, 1938 - March 25, 2024