Sgt. James Paul Vernier
U.S. Army Sgt. James Paul Vernier, 22, Free Soil, passed away on March 23, 2026.
James was born on July 30, 2003, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Heather Vernier and Staff Sgt. Roger Vernier (ret., U.S. Army). Growing up in a military family, he developed a strong sense of service, loyalty, and commitment that would guide his life.
Known to many as “Jay,” he was athletic from a young age, participating in baseball, soccer, basketball, football, track, and cross country. He was equally dedicated in the classroom, earning the H.G. Bacon Award for four consecutive years and graduating from Mason County Central High School, class of 2021, with a 4.0 GPA.
Before enlisting, Jay spent his summers relaxing in hammocks with friends, enjoying time at the beach, and traveling with his family. He had a passion for video games—especially role-playing games he could play with his sister, Madison. Jay was accepted to Michigan Technological University to study computer engineering and completed one semester before feeling called to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army.
James joined Comanche Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado, on February 23, 2023, following completion of Infantry Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training. He was initially assigned as a rifleman in 1st Squad, 1st Platoon, and deployed in support of the brigade’s Korea rotation. While deployed to Korea, he also completed a full marathon, reflecting his determination and resilience.
Upon returning from Korea, James was recognized for his strong performance and leadership potential. He briefly served as the 1st Platoon Radio Telephone Operator before being reassigned to the Weapons Squad as an assistant gunner. In March 2025, he deployed in support of Joint Task Force Southern Border, where he was promoted to corporal and selected as an Alpha Team Leader in 1st Squad, 1st Platoon. After completing the promotion board in July, he earned the rank of sergeant, officially pinned on February 1, 2026.
During his service, Sgt. Vernier also served as the alternate Company Hazardous Materials noncommissioned officer, assisting with the unit’s redeployment from the southern border. He distinguished himself during training exercises, earning recognition as the top team member during a live-fire exercise in February 2026 and contributing to his squad being named the top squad in the company during subsequent platoon-level exercises at Pinyon Canyon in March 2026.
Sgt. Vernier’s awards and decorations include five Army Achievement Medals, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Korea Defense Service Medal, and recognition for his service in support of the Southern Border mission. He was dedicated to his country and to the brothers and sisters he served alongside.
When not serving in an official capacity, Jay enjoyed riding his Kawasaki Ninja and collecting tattoos inspired by his favorite video game characters. Some of his happiest moments were spent at his sister Kaira’s, playing with his nephews, or line dancing at a favorite local hangout.
He is survived by his mother, Heather Vernier; his siblings, Kaira (Doug) Ambrose, Jonathan (Cian) Cusack, and Madison Vernier; his beloved nephews, Peyton Williams and Harlan Ambrose; and his cat, Sophie. He is also survived by his grandfather, James E. Vernier of Clarkston, and grandmother Phyllis M. Vernier of Ludington. He is also remembered fondly by aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, friends, and fellow service members who will miss him deeply.
James was preceded in death by his father, Staff Sgt. Roger Vernier (ret.); his grandfather, Paul J. Schroeder; and his grandmothers, Ellen Schroeder and Ruth Vernier.
His family established the James P. Vernier Memorial Scholarship in his honor. This fund will provide a $1,000 annual scholarship for the next 50 years to support students pursuing a career in mental health education. Donations may be made through the Mason County Central Educational Foundation.
Jay will be remembered for his quick wit, a smile that could light up the room, his deep love for his family, loyal friendship, and the strength, intelligence, and determination he brought to everything he did.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Grace Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.
.png)
