Vernelda Mae Porter

Vernelda Mae (Burdette) Porter, passed away on July 12th, 2023, at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center in Casa Grande, Arizona.

She was born on March 20th, 1956, in San Carlos, Arizona to Roxie and Robert Burdette, Sr. She grew up in San Carlos, Arizona, and was also known as “Pogo.” Vernelda married Jeffery R. Porter on February 14, 1974. After marriage, Jeffery joined the military, and they began to travel wherever he was stationed. They lived in Louisiana for three years, Guam for three years, and Washington state for 11 years. Their family later returned to Arizona after her husband was discharged in 1994, from the Air Force after serving 22 years.

Pogo was a homemaker, she worked as a childcare services worker, and an Air Force Base Service Worker. She was a very private woman, and it was very hard to catch her beautiful smile on the camera. She loves to laugh despite always hiding her smile. She was a huge support to her family and others, and she was also a person to put others before herself. Vernelda was also very firm on keeping up with traditions. She enjoyed beading, sewing, and making quilts. She enjoyed spending time with her family, including her children, grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pogo is survived by her son, William Rufus Porter, and son-in-law N. John Flatland Porter. Sisters: Rose White, Arlene Holmes, Josephine Irving, Verna Stevens, Lana Roubideaux, and Sharon Burdette. Brothers: Harding Burdette, Andrew Burdette, Sr., and Ricardo Burdette.
She is proceeded in death by her daughter Roxianna Renee Porter, parents: Roxie and Robert Burdette, Sr., and siblings: Mary Ann Steven and Robert Burdette, Jr.

Viewing will be held on July 21, 2023, from 8:00 A.M.- 9:00 A.M. at the Lamont Mortuary Chapel in Globe, Arizona.

Funeral Services will be held on July 21, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. at the Lamont Mortuary Chapel in Globe, Arizona.

Interment will follow at Lower Peridot Six Mile Cemetery in Peridot, Arizona.

Assisting the family; Lamont Mortuary of Globe located at 328 S. Hill St., Globe, AZ. (928) 425-5491