Oct. 16, 1937 - Jun. 11, 2024
Date of Service: Jun. 20, 2024
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Service Program
RUPERT – Vernice Evelyn Bowers Fletcher, age 86, of Rupert, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, surrounded by her devoted family.
Born to William “Bill” Bowers and Eva Maier on October 16,1937, in Rupert, ID. Vernice was the eldest of three children. Her childhood was split between the scenic landscapes of Flathead Lake, Montana, and the charming town of Rupert where she attended Jefferson and Pioneer schools.
In 1953, Vernice’s life changed forever when she met the love of her life, Ernest Fletcher. They were married on June 6 in Burley, Idaho. Together, they embarked on a journey that blessed them with five children; Bill (Teana) Fletcher of Heyburn, Barbara (Gary) Gallegos of Heyburn, Wesley (Melanie) Fletcher of Burley, Deborah (Jose) Medina of Twin Falls, Kimberly (Ed) Ryan of Rupert, and Kenneth Dale Fletcher.
The early years of Vernice and Ernie’s marriage were marked by resilience and love. Despite facing some challenging times, they found solace in each other. Living near a music venue in Napa, California, they often overheard visiting country acts, which deepened Vernice’s passion for music and dancing with her beloved husband. Ernie frequently credited Vernice for keeping their family together during those tough years, as he juggled his day job and weekend duties with the Army Reserve.
Upon returning to Idaho, they settled into their home on 400 North Meridian in Rupert. Vernice took immense pride in her beautiful yard during the summers and spent countless winter hours sewing clothes for her children. Her talent for sewing extended to her grandchildren, for whom she continued to craft clothing filled with love.
Vernice’s professional life included several years of dedicated service at the J.R. Simplot Company in Heyburn, until her retirement in 1998. While she didn’t miss the work, she cherished the friendships she forged and made an effort to stay connected, even learning how to use her “dang” cell phone. She also spent much of her free time working in various positions with the Rupert 5th Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
After Ernie’s passing in 2003, Vernice devoted a year to finalizing projects at their home and perfecting her cherished yard. She then moved in with her daughter Kimberly and son-in-law Ed Ryan, from where she spent her remaining years traveling, visiting family, and embracing each new generation with open arms. Every visit with family left a trail of homemade biscuits and jam, candy and smiles.
Vernice is preceded in death by her husband, Ernest; sister, Elaine Pazdel; infant son, Kenneth Dale Fletcher; and great-granddaughter, Nayeli Medina. She is survived by her younger brother, Lloyd Bowers of Newton, Alabama; children: Bill, Barbara,Wes, Deborah, and Kimberly; along with 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren who will forever treasure her memory and the legacy of love she left behind.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th Street, in Burley with Bishop Boyd Bingham officiating. Burial will follow at Rupert Cemetery.
Family and friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 19, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th Street, in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. Thursday, preceding the funeral.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Enhabit Home Health & Hospice for all their care shown to Vernice in her journey. Especially to Shirley, Stephanie, Jackie, and Cassandra.
A live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/a1ae9cynH70.
