Laverne Boston was born in South Carolina on April 25, 1936. He was the second of five children born to Sylvester and Sarah Boston.

Vern, as hes affectionately known, grew up in Philadelphia and enjoyed playing basketball, baseball, and football. When teaching his own children how to play basketball, he would often say that no matter how old he got he would always have a jump shot. He was also passionate about bowling and fishing, and if Vern caught it Betty cooked it Vern loved history growing up and would read about different cultures around the world. After joining the Air Force, he was stationed in Japan allowing him the opportunity to personally experience one of the cultures that he read about.

Once he came back to Philadelphia, Vern and a friend decided to drive to San Diego, California. He had planned on moving there, but his friend asked if they first could go to New York City so he can earn some extra money. Due to this detour, Vern never made it to San Diego. While in New York, Vern met and married the love of his life, Betty Sutton. Now, Vern and Bettys first date was nothing short of amusing! Vern Boston, being the "main man" he was, asked Betty out on a date without any money. Betty, being the caring person she was, laughed it off and paid for himand the rest was history. They married on September 26, 1964, and were happily married for 52 years until Betty preceded him in death in November 2016.

In 1965, Vern and Betty welcomed their first child, Sarah, and then later welcomed their only son, Sylvester, in 1973.

In the years that followed, Vern and his family moved to Queens. Although Vern was not one of Jehovahs Witnesses, he supported his family in their worship after Betty became one some years prior. His family was active members of the St. Albans and Cambria Heights Congregations during the time they lived in Queens. Vern helped his wife in hosting the local congregation bible study in their home for 23 years. On many nights, he would make sure the basement was ready for book study before his wife came home from work so she would not have to set up.

In 1982, Vern and Betty welcomed their third child, and second daughter, Joycelyn the greatest surprise yet! Later in the 90s, Vern experienced tremendous joy when he welcomed his first three grandchildren Cameron, Morgan, and Racine Roberts. He loved playing with his grandchildren; with his love for learning, he always taught them to get good grades and keep a sense of humor no matter what! They did everything together like music videos, playing video games, and supported them in whatever dream they had. Later his youngest grandson, Greyson Johnson, was born. Vern was a devoted grandfather that picked up Greyson from school at times, played games with him, and cook his favorite food rice and beans. Spending time with his grandchildren brought him great joy that could not be put into words. This joy grew when he became a great grandfather to the youngest member of his family, Garrett Roberts. Even though Vern was up in age he would still play as much as he could with his great-grandson.

Vern had a loving personality and a ton of life lessons that drew people to him. He brought that same personality, and his desire to treat people fairly and with respect, to his career. Vern worked for the United States Post Office for 27 years. After years of working at the post office, he earned his CDL license and became a bus driver for children with special needs. After a few years of driving a bus, he became a teaching assistant for children with special needs. He enjoyed working with "his" kids and showered them with love. After retiring from the school district, Vern and Betty would later settle in Miramar, Florida where they enjoyed their last few years together.

He will be remembered for the love he showed to his family and friends. And, hell be remembered for his outgoing personality, for dad never met a stranger and always had a life lesson to share.

Vern was preceded in death by his wife Betty, youngest daughter Joycelyn Johnson. To cherish his memory are his oldest daughter Sarah Roberts (Lonnie); son Sylvester Boston (Showeshi); grandchildren Cameron Roberts, Morgan Roberts (Felicia), Racine Roberts, and Greyson Johnson;(father Gaarcia) great-grandson Garrett Roberts; sisters Ella Mae Cunningham, Lucille Boston; brother Raymond Boston; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial Service

Saturday, January 22, 2022
2:00 PM