Leo Graham Vereen, age 93, an incredibly talented man filled with foresight vision left his earthly life Sunday, June 4, 2023 to join his beloved wife, Carol, in their eternal rest.

He was born May 12, 1930 in Wilmington, the son of Charles M. Vereen and Margaret Stephens Vereen. In addition to his parents Leo was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Kelly Vereen; sisters, Gertrude Connor, Mamie Rosiere; and brothers, Charles, Artis, and Robert Vereen.

Leo is survived by his daughter, Connie V. Bell (Tripp); son, L. Graham Vereen, Jr. (Mickey); grandchildren, Ashley V. Bell (Shanna), Hanna Tyer (John), Mitchell Vereen and Blake Vereen; eight great grandchildren; sister, Barbara Watters (Russell); many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Leo proudly and honorably served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and served in the US Navy on the MSCO Plover as a radioman.

He was a member of Cape Fear Presbyterian Church where he taught Sunday school teenage classes for 40 years and had served as an Elder. Also, Leo was chairman of the Bible Program in New Hanover County schools for a number of years.

After working for many years Leo retired from International Nickel Company, Wrightsville Beach location. Associated with his work Leo was a member of National Association of Corrosion Engineers, participated with the NC Research Team during the  time of Discovery of the USS Monitor off of Cape Hatteras, and was publicly honored for his significant contributions in the field of marine corrosion. He taught Marine Biology to various individuals and companies.

After retirement Leo  and Carol enjoyed traveling both abroad (Japan, Korea, and more) and in the states (Niagara Falls plus). Leo was musically gifted and played the Harmonica and Banjo. His talents were many - sketch artist, photography, and carpentry  to name a few. Leo had a wonderful sense of humor that he freely shared.

Most important Leo loved the Lord, his dear family and he was an outstanding husband, daddy, granddaddy, brother, and loyal friend.

The family will receive friends 11:00 to 12 noon Friday, June 9, 2023  at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

From the funeral home we will proceed to Garden of Memories Cemetery in Kelly for a graveside service at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Martha Highsmith conducting the service.

Leo's family is eternally grateful to the staff of Bradley Creek at Carolina Bay Healthcare for the loving care given to Leo during his stay there.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.