Oprah Winfrey took to social media on Saturday to share that her father, Vernon Winfrey, transitioned to his heavenly home on Friday (July 8) after battling cancer.
Mr. Winfrey was 89.
Oprah spent quality time with her father in his last few weeks and on the Fourth of July she returned to Nashville and surprised Mr. Winfrey with a special “Vernon Winfrey Appreciation Celebration.”
During the celebration, Vernon was showered with flowers, balloons, love, and appreciation from his family and friends.
In a post on her official Instagram page, Oprah spoke about the celebration as she shared the news of his passing:
Vernon Winfrey 1933-2022
Less than a week ago we honored my father in his own backyard.
My friend and gospel singer Wintley Phipps saluted him with song.
He FELT the love and reveled in it until he could no longer speak.
Yesterday with family surrounding his bedside, I had the sacred honor of witnessing the man responsible for my life, take his last breath.
We could feel Peace enter the room at his passing.
That Peace still abides. All is well. Thank you for your prayers and good thoughts ??
See Oprah Winfrey’s original post below.
Nashville’s Mayor John Cooper took to social media to extend his condolences and to pay his respects to Mr. Winfrey.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family of Vernon Winfrey.
Vernon served on Metro Council for 16 years and dedicated his life to entrepreneurship, barbering, and mentoring young men in the community.
An Army veteran and deacon, he leaves behind a legacy of service.
See Mayor Cooper’s post below.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to the Winfrey family and all who knew and loved Mr. Vernon.
May he rest in paradise.
