Vertis A. Winfrey was born on November 22, 1932 to the late Robert  E. and Lelia M. Johnson-Winfrey, in Madisonville, TX.

Vertis confessed his love for Christ at an early age and became a member of Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Bedias, Texas.

In his adult life Vertis lived in Houston, Texas where he retired as a security guard. Prior to starting a life in Houston, he served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958.

Vertis passed away on June 9, 2020 at his Harris County home. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Vergetta Butler, Hattie Mae Riles, Robert Winfrey,Jim Winfrey and Criselia Collins.

Vertis leaves behind his sister: Glorie McAdams and a host of nieces, nephews and additional family and friends.