Vernon Lee (Fat Cat) Cope

Vernon Lee (Fat Cat) Cope, age 75, of London, Kentucky passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025. He leaves behind his loving wife, Shirley Wathen Cope; nine children, Vernon Cope Jr. & wife Kim of Bright, IN; Kimberly Cope of Ohio; Samuel Cope & wife Melissa of Ohio, Jamie Johnson of London, KY, Michael Wayne Cope of London, KY, Ashley Cope & Keisha of London, KY, Chris Griffith & wife Tessa of Tennessee, Shirley Marie Neal of Silver Grove, Kentucky; Vernon Emler of London, KY; eighteen grandchildren; twenty-three great grandchildren; two fur grandchildren that he loved dearly; plus a host of other family and friends to cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Warren Gee & Helen Buttry Cope; two siblings, Jackie Sue Brown Cope, Peggy Bottoms; and by his great granddaughter, Macii Rose Gahan. Vernon was a devoted family man and skilled craftsman. A self-employed carpenter by trade, Vernon poured his heart and hands into building homes, leaving behind a legacy of sturdy walls and warm memories for all who had the joy of living in them. He had a deep love for the open road and spent many joyful hours riding his motorcycle, finding freedom and peace in the wind. When he wasn’t working or riding, you could find him enjoying his favorite westerns—especially those starring his favorite actor, “The Duke” himself, John Wayne. Vernon cherished his family and extended family above all. He was a steady and loving presence not only to those related by blood but also to many others who came to see him as a father figure and mentor. Throughout his life, countless children grew to love and admire him for his kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength. His ready smile brought comfier and laughter to every gathering. He was a man of integrity, hard work, and heart—a true original. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. The family would like to give special thanks to a loving friend, Teresa Bingham, that helped them throughout their journey. A funeral service for Vernon Lee (Fat Cat) Cope will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of House-Rawlings Funeral Home with Jake Cope officiating. Interment will follow at the Elijah Campbell Cemetery in Manchester, Kentucky. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 beginning at 6:00 p.m. also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the funeral home to help with funeral expenses. Donations may be made in person, by mail, by phone or through the following link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SC9W3VKVJYS82 The family has entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangements.

Vernon Lee (Fat Cat) Cope

June 6, 1949 - May 24, 2025