Bishop Vernon Artis

Bishop Vernon Artis transitioned from this earthly life at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Norfolk, VA, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. He was the son of the late Lonnie T. Artis and Clarine Lewter Artis. He was born on November 7, 1948, in Nansemond County, VA.

Vernon attended the Nansemond County Public Schools System, and he graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 1967. He earned his Bachelor of Divinity from Roanoke Theological Seminary in 1992, his Master of Theology from Andersonville Baptist Seminary in 1 994. He was a candidate for the Doctor of Theology from Andersonville Baptist Seminary. He is an alumnus of the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Vernon wore many service hats during his lifetime within the community and church. Vernon was a skilled tradesman. He finished his five-year apprenticeship training as a Plumber in 1974. He was a member of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada for over 30 years. First Black apprentice for plumbers in Local Union 1 10, 1969-1974. He was a Journeyman Plumber and Certified Pipe Welder until his retirement. He was an insurance Agent and part-time Real Estate Salesman.

Vernon received Jesus Christ as his personal Savior 1982 at First Baptist Church (South Hill) in Chesapeake, VA. He was known for his love and development of youth in sports within the church and community. 1981-1984, he served as the Director of the Church's Youth Athletics. He was the Manager/PIayer and coach for First Baptist Church (FBC), Men's Softball Team. 1980-1984, Coached the Women's Softball Team, 1980-1984, Secretary of Tidewater Church Softball League 1982-1984, Reporter of the South Norfolk Youth Athletic Association 1979-1982, Coach for the South Norfolk Wolverines (Girls Tournament Team and Boys Softball Team) Astros (Boys and Girls Baseball Team) South Norfolk Cowboys (Senior Boys Football) Spartans Girls Basketball team, Warriors (Boys Basketball Team), also Eastern Virginia Official Association: Official, Umpire softball, football, baseball. Bishop Artis hands were not found idle within the church; he was a teacher of the adult Bible Class, Sunday School Teacher, Treasurer of the male chorus, 1982-1985, was a member of the International Conference of Police Chaplains, and served as Chaplain for the city of Chesapeake, VA Police Department for several years.

Vernon joined First Baptist Church (South Hill) in Chesapeake, VA. Later, he was ordained as a Deacon, and following that, he was licensed as a gospel minister under the leadership of the late Edward Robinson Shambry in April 1983. Vernon was ordained to work in the gospel ministry under the Pastorate of Rev. George Henry. Further answering the call and assignment on his life, he became the Assistant Pastor of First Baptist Church (South Hill) in Chesapeake, VA, in 1984.

Bishop Artis became Pastor of New Bethany Christian Church on January 10, 1992, and served faithfully until January I , 2003. Bishop Artis became the Founder and Pastor of Hampton Roads Agape Fellowship for several years. In 201 7, He joined Healing Chapel Baptist Church of Suffolk, VA, and faithfully served as an Associate Minister to Pastor Morris Almond until his health failed. At Healing Chapel Baptist Church, he taught the Adult Bible Study. Throughout his family, the secular and church community, Bishop Artis was known to be a lover of the Word and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Bishop Artis was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Derryl L. Britt (Lil D), his youngest sister, Rebbie Artis, his oldest sister, Rev. Bertha L. Kornegay, and his oldest brother, John T. Artis.

He leaves to cherish his love, wisdom, and memories his children: One Son, Derryl Britt, of Durham, NC; Three Daughters, Michelle Artis (Frantz Saincere), of Chesapeake, VA; Julia Artis, of Norfolk, VA; Kertesha Artis, of Portsmouth, VA; Nine Grandchildren; Ten Great Grandchildren, One Great-Great Grandchild, One Loving Sister, Shirley Jordan (James), of Norfolk, VA, who prayed without ceasing for him through countless battles; and One Devoted Brother, Lonnie Earl Artis, of Suffolk, VA, Who consistently walked through this journey with him day and night, showing unwavering love and support. He is also remembered with fondness and gratitude by his former wife, Diane Artis, who continued to offer and give invaluable support and care during his final years. A devoted friend, Harold Brown, for over 40 years, who continued to support and assist him as a friend and undergird him spiritually.

Bishop Artis loved his family at large and embraced a legacy of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nephews, great-great-nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

On Thursday, October 9, 2025 viewing will take place from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 12:00pm on Friday, October 10, 2025 at New Bethany United Church of Christ, 15496 Benns Church Blvd. Smithfield, Va. 23430. Please Keep the Artis Family in your Prayers.