Vernon Howell and Valera Dodd Denman

Vernon Howell Denman and Valera Dodd Denman, who were married for an impressive 77 years, passed away on October 16 and 17, 2024. Vernon departed on October 16th at the age of 97 and was present at the gates of heaven, ready to welcome Valera upon her arrival the following day, October 17th. Valera was 94 years old. In the 1940s, they met at Burbank High School in San Antonio. Vernon served honorably during World War II in the Army Air Corps, both before and during the occupation of Japan. During the occupation, he served as a Corporal in the 748th AAF band, where he performed as a goodwill ambassador throughout Japan. A history of the 748th AAF Band can be viewed at https:// vimeo.com/75458578 Upon his discharge from service, Vernon and Valera were married in San Antonio. Vernon pursued a degree in music education at Vandercook School of Music in Chicago. Upon completing his studies, the couple relocated to the Rio Grande Valley, where Vernon commenced his career as an assistant band director in the Harlingen School District. With their three children in tow, Vernon and Valera relocated to various cities in Texas, where Vernon established exceptional band programs in each location. These cities included Ingleside, Cotulla, Raymondville, Edinburg, Lewisville, Irving, Eagle Mountain Sagnaw, Rockport-Fulton, Mission, Pharr, and ultimately, St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville, where Vernon retired. Valera, in addition to managing their family responsibilities, fulfilled various roles, including secretary for various school districts, the Hidalgo and Willacy county courthouse, Texas Instruments, Port Mansfield Navigation District, Tarrant County College, and the McAllen and PSJA School District Music Departments. Upon retirement, Vernon and Valera relocated to McAllen, where Vernon enjoyed photography, golfing, performed with the McAllen Wind Symphony and entertained winter texans in the Tuxedo Junction Dance Band. Valera engaged in church activities at Harvey Street Baptist Church, spent time with grandchildren, pursued reading and gardening interests. They are preceded in death by their parents Monte and Pauline Denman, Monte Bailey and Ova Dodd and daughter in law Edna Denman. Surviving children are Paul Denman (Sara), Deborah Moon Anson (Greg), and Dwight Denman (Tracie) along with 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at the Gardens at Brookridge for their unwavering assistance, care, and support. Additionally, the family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Vida de Paz Hospice for providing comfort and compassion during their final days. A brief ceremony will be held on December 9th at 2:00 PM at the RGV State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas. Instead of flowers or memorials, please consider donating to the TMEA Scholarship Fund at https://my.tmea.org/donate-now/

Tributes

Vernon Howell and Valera Dodd Denman

October 16, 2024