Obituary of Vernon David Mostella

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:1-4 It is with shattered hearts that we announce that on April 30th, 2024, Jesus called Vernon David “Ddaddy” Mostella home with Him. David was born August 1st, 1949. The dictionary defines the word DEVOTED as, “to give all or a large part of one’s time or resources to a person, activity, or a cause; very loving or loyal.“ He was a devoted son to the late Alvin and Sarah Mostella. He was a devoted husband for 54 years, 8 months and 1 day to the love of his life, Mary Lee Pope Mostella. He was a devoted father to their two children, Cal and Amy Graham (Allen) and Ddaddy to their four grandchildren: MaryGrace Smith (Grant), Kalei, Gus, Gabby Joy Graham and soon a great grandson, Shepherd David Smith. David’s devotion to his family was unmatched. He loved his brothers and sisters: Ronnie Mostella, Kim, Wes, Fran, Matt and Nan Pope. He loved his nieces and nephews: Kenny Mostella (Barbara), Becky Phillips (Jack), Bethany DiSalvo (Jason), Ashley Smith (Andy), Jonathan Pope (Max), Benjamin Pope (Lindsey) and his many great nieces and nephews. David was a devoted man of God. His dedication to the Word of God, his family, his friends and the work of his hands were a true and living testament of his faith. Nothing he put his hands to do was without full devotion. His character was sure and strong as an oak tree, firmly rooted, standing tall, unwavering in the trials and tribulations of this world. David’s body had been failing him for many years, still he pressed on strong and faithful. Last year, he built a home for his bride to be close to family so she would be safe and cared for in case that he could not. He pursued greatness and always encouraged others to do the same. He spread his branches wide with pride when he spoke about his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and he was so excited about his great grandson that is soon to be born. He rarely was the center of attention, but when he spoke, though soft and gentle, everyone listened intently because it was purposeful or occasionally a timely zinger that made us all laugh. Much like the foundation of a house, David’s strength and support was undeniable. He didn’t mind being behind the scenes holding others up so they could shine. He was selfless in every way. Always putting others before himself, even at the very end of his life his last prayer request was for his “beautiful family”. His family is broken-hearted, but are not like those without hope for 1 Thessalonians 4:13 says, Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. We can take comfort from God’s Word that we will see him again. He was excited about his new, bright, shining, white robe. We are thankful that his body is restored. We are blessed by the love and devotion David so richly lavished on all and we look forward with hope for the day that we join him in heaven. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Usrey Funeral Home - Pell City from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at St. Clair Memorial Gardens at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024. In lieu of usual remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions honoring the life of Mr. Mostella be directed to Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (https://www.aidb.org/page/1484). Condolences may be offered online at www.usreyfuneralhome.com. Usrey Funeral Home of Pell City is assisting the family.