Vernagene Mae Sheets , 84, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 7:38 p.m. Monday, November 3, 2025, at her home.

Born on April 6, 1941, in Whitley County, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Glancey O. and Hannah M. (Walker) Hertsel.  Growing up near Larwill, she completed Larwill Elementary School and attended Larwill High School.

She married Allen Truelove.  The couple had no children.  Some years after Allen's death, Vernagene met and eventually married Lawrence "Larry" Sheets on November 13, 1999.  Larry died on July 5, 2001.

Vernagene began her work career at the former Blue Bell, Columbia City.  With a caring heart, she became a CNA and QMA for Miller's at Oak Pointe for about five years.  She then transitioned to in-home care, traveling the area to provide assistance to seniors in their own homes.  She retired after over 15 years of providing in-home care.

At home, she enjoyed gardening and canning her produce for use throughout the year.  She liked shopping, playing solitaire, and spending time at the local Eagles Club.  Her favorite drink was hot, black coffee, and she always had a cup nearby.  She loved her many cats and dogs throughout the years, with her favorite being a Collie named Katie.  When the great-grandkids came along, she became their favorite, spoiling them whenever possible with candy and her undivided attention.

Surviving are her step-children, Sherry Stidham of Mentone, Shirley (Jesse) Rollins of South Whitley, Debra O'Dea of South Whitley, and Pam Seymour of Columbia City; a step-granddaughter and caregiver, Joni (Matt) Smith of Columbia City; step-grandchildren, Jeremy Gause (Amy Treece) and Janelle (Edwin) Bartels; great-grandkids, Mykayla Harpel (Brandon Young), Austin Murphy, Chase Smith, Kyler Gause, Karmine Gause and Keira Gause; great-great grandkids, Kendall and Kinsleigh; and a brother, Lewis Hertsel of Fort Wayne.  The family would like to thank additional caregivers, Amy Treece, Chandra Murphy and Mykayla Harpel.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by many brothers and sisters.

The funeral service is 2 p.m. Saturday (November 8th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Visitation is from 12 noon until the service Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Vernagene's honor are to final expenses c/o Smith & Sons Funeral Home.