Vernell Dean "Verne" Canfield

June 18, 1933 – October 18, 2026

Vernell Dean “Verne” Canfield, 93, of Verona, Virginia, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Born in Mitchell, South Dakota, Verne grew up in California and went on to play basketball at UC–Santa Barbara before serving in the U.S. Army Honor Guard at Fort Myer. He later earned his master’s degree from George Washington University and began a lifelong career in teaching and coaching.

In 1964, Verne became head basketball coach at Washington & Lee University, where he led the program for 31 years and was inducted into the W&L Athletics Hall of Fame. He founded the Canfield Basketball Camps, coached at Grace Christian Church after retirement, and remained devoted to his players throughout his life.

Verne married Frances Cline Canfield in 1989, and together they built a beautiful life on their farm in Verona. He cherished his faith, his family, his daily workouts, and the many relationships formed through coaching.

Verne is survived by his wife Fran; his children Sheri, Ron, Lori, and Rob; Fran’s children Carl, Alice, Matt, Andy, and Jason; many grandchildren; and his sister Eileen. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Sharon.

A Graveside Service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026 in Fairfield Cemetery 5310 Lee Highway, Fairfield, Virginia 24435 by Pastor Thomas “Tom” Quick.

A Coffee & Donuts Reception will follow the service at Fairfield United Methodist Senior Center, 5622 Lee Highway, Fairfield, Virginia 24435.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canfield Endowment at Washington & Lee University. Contact Coach Chris McHugh at mchugh@wlu.edu for details.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton is in charge of his arrangements.