Vernon was tragically taken from his family through an act of violence on Thursday, Jan. 4. He was born on June 14, 1983 in Arcata and lived his entire life in Humboldt County. Vern was of Yurok-Karuk-Chetco descent and was an enrolled member of Trinidad Rancheria.

Vernon is survived by his oldest daughter, Kiera Weatherford; his wife, Shannon Weatherford; their children, Kamiya and Kateara; sister Doreen Ashley and her children Andru, Eva, and Jesstin Braveheart; brother Russell Albers & Jana and their son Jordyn; brother Samson Albers; and mother Sonya Rhodes. Also his aunts Gloria Costa, Rita Farol, Shirley Laos, Ruby Rollings, Vivian “Bip” Nelson and Virginia “Winnie” McKenzie, and uncle David Weatherford; and numerous cousins, extended family and friends, including his special friend Jacqueline and her children Louis, Nate and Ronnie. He is preceded in death by his grandmother Vera Weatherford Green and grandfather David Weatherford; uncle Roger Lewis and cousin Tony Lewis.

Vernon was a very happy man with a sparkling personality and a smile that lit up the room along with his goofy laugh. He was described as many things to many different people. He was a family man, a loving father, caring brother and an affectionate husband. Vern enjoyed spending time with his children and making people laugh. He also had a wild side. His large loving family will miss him dearly.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, Jan. 11 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Paul’s Chapel in Arcata, with funeral services on Friday, Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. at Paul’s Chapel, officiated by Kathleen and Rodney Vigil. A potluck reception will follow at Redwood Lodge in Arcata.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Vernon Weatherford’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.