June 12th, 1931 Sherman C. Vernon was born in Franklinton, LA. He was the eldest of 6 boys. In the early 1940s’ he and his family moved to Oakland, CA. As a young man in his teen years he began to excel socially and athletically. In 1949 as a student/athlete at Mc Clymonds High School he played basketball and ran track. In the sport of track, he was a member of the 1/2 mile relay team, which set a state record that stood for 8 years.
After graduating from high school, he attended Arizona State University. Mid-way through his college career he decided to serve his country and enlisted into the United States Air Force. During his enlisted time he was stationed in Washington D.C., as an avid athlete and lover of basketball he responded to an open try-out for the Washington Capitals professional team and made the team, his time on the team was short due to his being transferred back to California. In honor of his military service he received medals for Good Conduct, National Service, United Nations, & Korean War. In receiving an honorable medical retirement from the USAF he continued his education at Oakland City College and received a degree in Social Services. After this achievement he furthered his education and later received an Engineering Certificate.
During his time in school he met Maudry Mouton, they were soon married (which lasted 47 years until his death) and started a family, in which they had three (3) children (Sherrill, Crawford, & Sherman M.) Sherman and his family lived in Oakland, CA - Los Alamos, NM - Las Vegas, NV - & Lompoc, CA. The evolution of the Space Shuttle and employment as an Aerospace Engineer produced his final move to Lompoc, CA.
Sherman got the name “BIG CITY” because when he would come into Lompoc from Vandenberg Village, Vandenberg AFB or the Harris Grade Road he would make the comment “Look at the lights in the Big City of Lompoc” (Similar to driving into Las Vegas, NV from California on I-15) and he would often tell people he lives in the “BIG CITY” of Lompoc.
“BIG CITY” Sherm was heavily involved with the communities he lived in. He served as a career counselor, coach, and mentor to the youth, and young adults. He was a member of the Episcopal Church, Moose Lodge, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War and Disabled Veteran. He helped and supported the youth and young adults in securing employment, going to college, transportation to events and functions, providing financial support and assistance. He opened his home to family, friends and friend s of his children when they had no place to go. He always encouraged individuals to give your best effort and do the best you can to be prepared for anything. He always stressed “Practice, Practice, Practice”.
“BIG CITY” Sherm passed away in June of 2003. He is highly missed and ever present in the lives of his wife, children, and grand children. He was not perfect, but always striving to give the best he could. Due to his faith in GOD, desire, will, patience, and ability to support the youth for over 50 years of his life, we name this scholarship in his honor. WE LOVE YOU !!!
THANK YOU for your effort and support!!!
"BIG CITY"
Sherman C. Vernon
1931-2003
