Vernita E. Larson

Vernita E. Larson, 88, of Sherrard, passed away January 27, 2026, at Mercer Manor Memory Care in Aledo.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday February 2, 2026, at the Swedona Lutheran Church, 1493 Knoxville Rd, Lynn Center. Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m. Sunday February 1, 2026, at Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., 6601-38th Avenue, Moline. Burial will be at the Swedona Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Vernita was born on March 31, 1937, at home in Orion, the daughter of Luther “Shorty” and Bertha E. (Neuleib) Larson. She attended schools in Coal Valley and graduated from Orion High School in 1955. She married Maynard L. Larson on October 28, 1966, at Maynard’s sister, Twila’s home in Sherrard. He preceded her in death on February 2, 1988. She was a member of Swedona Lutheran Church.

Vernita was born with a joyful spirit; she embraced her roles as homemaker, mom and grandma with a nurturing and unwavering passion. Her life revolved entirely around those she cherished. Grandchildren, Lauren, Tyler, Dylan, Mollee, and Logan were fortunate to have her provide daycare through their young lives. She found delight in simple pleasures, loving to dance and brightening any room. Vernita enjoyed countless peaceful moments swaying in her front porch swing, often lost in song or conversation. Her family was her world and through them, her spirit dances on.

Survivors include her sons, Greg and Jeanie Larson of Sherrard, Jeff Nelson of Sherrard; daughter, Staci and Mark Koehler of Sherrard; daughter in law, Lynda Nelson; bonus children, Don and Mary Ann Reid of Sherrard; sister-in-law, Twila Cederstrom; grandchildren, Brandon, Angi, Lauren, Shelbi, Tyler, Dylan, Mollee, Travis, Logan, Nicky, Nathan, Kaylee, Karlee; and 15 great grandchildren with 1 on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; sons, Terri, Cory; and daughter-in-law, Holly; and sisters, Vivian and Veryl.

A special thank you to Hospice Compassus and Brandy Fuller with Mercer Manor for the love and compassion shown to Vernita and her family.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.