Vernon Elbert Styles, age 82, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, just two days after celebrating his birthday. Born on May 23, 1944, Vernon went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, surrounded by the love and memories of his family.



Vernon was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was marked by unwavering faith, compassion, and a servant’s heart. He dedicated much of his life to helping others and serving his community. For over 15 years, Vernon faithfully served at The Bridge Church of Western North Carolina, where he ran the church food bank and poured his heart into ministering to others and spent many years serving at his local community food bank. Vernon never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.



A gifted singer, Vernon loved praising the Lord through music whenever he had the opportunity. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he was deeply involved in his church, faithfully serving on the prayer team. Vernon prayed for others as though it were his God-given purpose, touching countless lives with his encouragement, kindness, and steadfast belief in the power of prayer.



Vernon also mentored many men through different stages of life, offering wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support. He was a true role model whose words and example inspired those around him to live with faith, integrity, and compassion.



Above all else, Vernon treasured his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife and grandchildren, who loved him tremendously and brought endless happiness to his life. His love, wisdom, and gentle spirit will remain in their hearts forever.



He is now reunited in Heaven with his first wife, Ana Vea Styles; his beloved son, Bryan Styles; his late parents, Mack Styles and Ethel Elizabeth Penland Styles; his sister, Emma Dean Styles Hays Elam ; and his brother, Lawrence Maxwell Styles, all of whom he dearly missed.



Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Janet Styles; stepchildren, Nathan Charles Rhodes and Jessica Rhodes Bello; grandchildren, Destiny (Logan) Deyton, Trinity (Nicolas) Fox, and David Aaron Bello Jr.; sisters, Camillee Ruth Thomas Bennett and Wanda Gail Styles. He also leaves behind many extended family members, church family, and dear friends who will forever remember his warmth, humor, faith, and selfless love for others.



Though he will be deeply missed, Vernon’s family rejoices in knowing he is at peace in the presence of the Lord. His legacy of faith, service, mentorship, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.



There will be a graveside service Saturday May 30, 2026 at 1:00 at Peterson Family cemetery off Whitson Branch Rd. All are welcome. A Celebration of life service will be held Sunday June 7, 2026 at WNC Bridge Church, Spruce Pine, NC at 3:00. 

Henline - Hughes Funeral Service is honored to be assisting the Styles family.