George Vernon Danford, 83, of Shallotte, NC, passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024 at Brunswick Novant Hospital.  He was born on February 3, 1940, in Shallotte, North Carolina to George Washington Danford and Edith Stone Danford.  He spent his childhood in Shallotte, NC and grew up in a house where McDonald’s is currently located.  He attended all his school years in Shallotte and graduated from Shallotte High School.  

Vernon was a lifelong resident of Brunswick County and retired from R.D. White & Sons Oil Company after 50 plus years of employment.  He was affectionately known around Shallotte as the “Gas Man”.  In addition to working at R.D. White & Sons, Vernon followed his family roots as he farmed tobacco for many years of his life. 

His whole life was dedicated to others especially his family.  He never met a stranger and he loved interacting with people he met along the way.  For those who knew him, they frequently said that he always had a smile on his face and he always had something funny to share with others.  He attributed his long and happy life to always being able to laugh and not take life too seriously.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.  As many people have said, he was one of a kind!

In addition to his parents, Vernon was predeceased by the love of his life and wife of 52 years, Glenda Inman Danford and his brothers Jerry, Gene, Earl, and sister, Mamie.  He leaves a son, Derek Danford (Marie) of Shallotte, NC, and a daughter, Crystal Danford of Wilmington, NC; sister, Marsha Danford. Vernon also had grandchildren, Kari (Trent), Kaenan, Sara (Paul), and Courtney (Ian).  He also leaves great- grandchildren, Graven, Raimund, Brayden, Mia, Aiden, and Noah.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and family one hour prior to the service on Friday, February 2, 2024 (1:00 pm) at the Chapel Hill Cemetery, and at other times from Vernon’s residence. 

Reverend Anthony Clemmons will conduct graveside services on Friday, February 2, 2024, at 2pm at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Shallotte.  Honorary casket bearers will be Buddy Evans, Keith Caison, and his many other lifelong friends.

The Chapel Hill Cemetery is located directly across the street from Highest Praise Church at 19 Red Bug Rd SW, Shallotte, NC 28470. 

Brunswick Funeral Service, Shallotte, NC