When Irish eyes are smiling... our Mom's are sure twinkling now at meeting God and being reunited with her adoring family.

Rose Ethel Vernon (nee Starrett) was born into a large, loving family in Derry, Ireland. One of eight children, she was raised in a simpler time. The Catholic Church was her moral compass for life, her faith could never be shaken. At the age of 14, with an eighth-grade education, she began work in a shirt factory. Her early twenties found her in England working in hotel restaurants as a waitress. Rose immigrated to the United States in the mid-50's where she reunited with her lovely twin sister, Jo, and would meet the love of her life, Bill Vernon. They would marry 6 months after meeting at a dance, and would go on to raise 6 children, while traveling the U.S. and Okinawa as a military family.

Our mom's life work was to provide a warm, loving home for her family. We grew up knowing her unfailing love and encouragement. Rose enjoyed her cuppa tea, a wee bit of Baileys, and long walks along country roads. She loved donkeys, birds, and babies. God blessed her with nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was thankful to have traveled extensively during her lifetime. Our mom lived her long life as a God-fearing woman, loved by all who knew her. She was beautiful inside and out. Rose is preceded in death by her husband Bill, her son Carl, and her grandson Alan. She is survived by her children Gina, John (Melissa), Terri (Ray), Colleen, and Kevin. Her daughter-in-law Rachel, grandchildren Brian, Matthew (George), Garrett, Sierra, Kirby (Tommy), Erin (Christopher), Catherine (Chris), Christopher (Kelsey) and great-grandchildren Connor, Jordan, Presley, and Zelda. This clan is her legacy.

... in the lilt of Irish laughter, you can hear the angels sing. When Irish hearts are happy, all the world is bright and gay, and when Irish eyes are smiling, sure they'll steal your heart away.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our sister Colleen for her tender loving care of our Mom over many years. Her selfless care allowed our Mother to continue living in the home she and her husband built.

We would also like to express our appreciation to Rose's many Nieces and Nephews for their continuous love shown through visits, letter, and calls.

Visitation will be held at Harrell Funeral Home in Austin, TX on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at 12:00 pm with the Rosary to follow beginning at 2:00 pm.Immediately following the Rosary, a wake will be celebrated at 4409 Woodstock Dr.  Georgetown, TX. 78633  Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church starting at 10:00 am, with a graveside service at 2:30 pm at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio.