Vernon Malachi Pagel, Jr., age 68, of Cornersville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on October 16, 2025. Vernon was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Pagel; his children, Daniel (Betty) Buerger of Trinity, AL, Carmela (Jeff) Webster, and Patrick Buerger; grandchildren, Stephanie Buerger Margelowsky, Jessica Dunn, Alex Webster, Garrett Webster, Grant Buerger, and Clara Buerger; and great grandchild, Sebastian. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra (Pete) Siggelko and Sheila (Richard) Mangrum.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Jean Pagel and Vernon Pagel, Sr., and his brother, Jackie Len Pagel.
A retired farmer from the University of Tennessee Dairy Station, as well as on his own farm, Vernon found deep fulfillment in his life’s work. For him, farming was more than a career-it was a passion and a way of life. He tended the soil with care, rose before dawn, and devoted countless long days to making hay and caring for the animals he loved.
Vernon established a family trust as a lasting legacy to his children, ensuring that the land he worked and cherished would continue to provide for generations to come. Yet, above all, his family was his greatest harvest. His hands told the story of honest work, and his heart reflected the quiet pride of a man who lived close to the land and loved deeply those around him.
Vernon’s warmth, generosity, and steadfast spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He cherished time with family, valued hard work, and lived each day with gratitude and love. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.
A celebration of Vernon’s life will be held at a later date in Cornersville, Tennessee, where friends and family will gather to honor and remember his legacy.
Cornersville Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
