Vernon Winfrey (Oprah’s father, And Ex-Councilman), Has Passed Away

Oprah Daily, Oprah’s lifestyle outlet, published a tribute saying that Oprah was able spend time in Nashville with her father during his final weeks.

Vernon was surprised on July 4th with a Vernon Winfrey Appreciation Celebration and backyard barbecue. He was surrounded by his loved ones and friends.

Vernon was a well-known barber in his neighborhood and served 16 years on the Metro Nashville Council.

Oprah stated in an earlier post that the celebration was meant to send her father flowers while he can still smell them.
Oprah’s friend, gospel singer Wintley Phipps, sang during the celebration. She wrote that he “FELT the love and enjoyed it until he couldn’t speak.”

“I send my deepest sympathies to Vernon Winfrey’s family. Nashville Mayor John Cooper stated on Twitter that Vernon was a Metro Council member for 16 years. He dedicated his life to mentoring young men and entrepreneurship. He is a veteran of the Army and a deacon. He leaves behind a legacy that demonstrates his dedication to service.

Vernita Lee , Oprah’s mother died in 2018 aged 83. Lee was born in Mississippi, and Winfrey was her first child. Vernon and Lee never got married.