Elbert "Ray" Vernon, 68, of Franklin, NC, passed away Saturday, July 1, 2017. Born in Brunswick County, NC, he was the son of the late Elbert Ray Vernon, Sr. and Marie Hill Vernon. Ray received his bachelor’s degree in engineering from NC State and a master’s degree in nursing. He was a master jeweler and a certified gemologist. He enjoyed carpentry, gardening and spending time with his family. Ray was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son-in-law and friend. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Williams Vernon; two children, Bridgett Ezzell (Darren) of Elizabethtown, NC and Steve Vernon (Missy) of Faison, NC; step daughter, M. Danielle Thompson of Franklin; three grandchildren, Leyton Ezzell, Caroline Sanders and Rebecca Vernon; mother-in-law, Doris L. Williams and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Cullasaja Gorge Fire and Rescue, 104 River Road, Franklin, NC 28734. Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com