Ret. U.S. Army Major Donald F. Vaughn, age 80, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, April 24, 2021 at his home in Franklin.
Don was born August 20, 1940 in Vinita, OK to his parents, the late Harold G. and Mary L. (Griffith) Vaughn. He was a 1958 graduate of Sheridan Union High School in Englewood, CO and went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR in 1965.
Don enlisted in the United States Army in 1966, attended Officer Candidate School and was subsequently commissioned an officer. He received many service medals for his bravery, including a Bronze Star during the Vietnam Campaign. He went on to retire in 1988, after 22 years of service, with the rank of Major working as an Officer in the Adjutant General Corps. After his military career, Don worked as Business and Legal Administrator for Vernon J. Petri Law Firm in Indianapolis.
Don was a faithful member of Triumphant Baptist Church in Columbus, IN. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #331 in Brownsburg. Don enjoyed working in his yard, landscaping and tending to his vegetable garden. He also enjoyed woodworking, genealogy and reading his Bible. Don was a fan of the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma Sooners. He will be remembered for his love of God, family and his country. He knew no strangers and cared for, not only physical needs, but also relationships with Jesus Christ.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Nancy L. (Mitchell) Vaughn, whom he married on March 23, 1962 in Denver, CO. He is also survived by his children, Matthew (Amy) Vaughn of Haysville, KS, Angela Vaughn of Forest, VA and Jennifer (Kevin) Talton of Bedford, VA; siblings, H. George (Deanie) Vaughn Jr. of Vinita, OK, David (Vicki) Vaughn of Coalgate, OK and Sharon (Jim) Kisby of Nicholasville, KY; grandchildren, Madelynn, Rachel and Claire Vaughn and Micah Talton; several nieces and nephews as well as many cousins; and one aunt, Rhea Graves of Vinita, OK.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Jack Vaughn and Patricia Ulmer.
Pastor Richard Vogsberger will conduct a funeral service on Monday at 6 p.m. at Triumphant Baptist Church, 5331 E. 400 S. in Columbus. Military rites presented by the United States Army. Friends may call from 4 p.m. until time of service on Monday at the church. Celebration dinner will follow the service. Burial will be at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, Englewood, CO. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Meredith-Clark Funeral Home Cremation & Personalization Center in Morgantown.
Memorial contributions may be sent in honor of Don to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10306.
Expressions of caring and kindness can be made to the Vaughn family at www.meredith-clark.com
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