Vernon I. Fitzgerald

Vernon Irone Miser Barnett Fitzgerald, lovingly known as Vern, transitioned peacefully from labor to reward on February 15, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. Born February 22, 1940, in Washington, DC, to the late Rufus and Alma Miser, she was the seventh of fourteen children.

A devoted wife, mother of six, grandmother, and matriarch, Vern dedicated her life to faith, family, and service. She worked for many years in the DC Public Schools system and retired from Army Distaff Hall in 1999. A faithful member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church and later Progress For Christ Baptist Church, she served on numerous ministries, chaired the Food & Clothing Ministry, and was known for her beautiful church hats and love of Psalm 40. Vern cherished cooking, sewing, family gatherings, and staying connected with loved ones.

She was briefly married to John Fitzgerald until his untimely passing. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 37 years Boyd Barnett Sr., children Alma Sydnor and Boyd Barnett Jr., and several siblings.
 

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Lloyd (Patricia), Randolph (Taquita), Lornethia (Gerald), Richard (Patricia); her brother Ronald Miser, her sister Alma Miller (Ronald); her niece/daughter Darion McNeill; 15 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends who will forever treasure her legacy of faith, strength, and love.

Celebration of Life Service

Friday, February 27, 2026

10 am viewing

11 am service

Spirit of Peace Baptist Church

4311 R Street

Capitol Heights, MD, 20743

Final Resting Place

Friday, February 27, 2026

1 pm

Glenwood Cemetery 

2219 Lincoln Road NE

Washington, DC, 20002

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