James Gary Vaughan peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2024, in his home. His beloved daughter, Kara, and dog, Laya, were with him as his spirit left this Earth and moved on to walk the woodlands of Heaven.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Gary possessed a profound respect and appreciation for the natural world; that’s where he seemed to feel most connected to God. When time eventually swept away his ability to be out in the woods or on his boat, he satisfied his longing by sitting on his porch for hours each day, watching for signs of wildlife in the field below.
Gary was a 1957 Graduate of Glouster High School, after which he proudly served in the US Army. He later went on to work for Bridgewater Machining, Western Southern Insurance, and Columbus and Southern Electric (now AEP), from which he retired.
A deeply patriotic American, a proud Trimble Tomcat, a loyal friend to all, and a person of profound integrity, Gary epitomized what it meant to be solid man of character and commitment.
Gary’s most intense focus and dedication, however, was always on his family. He cherished every gathering, holiday, school, and sporting event where he could be in the presence of those he loved, and who loved him so deeply, in return. Every visit, every call, concluded with a “Be careful” and an “I love you.” His family was his everything, evidenced by the way he lived his life to the very end.
Gary was preceded in death by Sandra (Nott) Vaughan, his loving and devoted wife of over 60 years, along with infant daughter Katharina, parents Ben and Louise Vaughan, and sister June (Gilbert) Bingman. He leaves behind a family who will forever adore him; daughters Kellie (Pete) Abele and Kara (Jason) Schoonover, grandchildren Alex, Chase, and Ash Abele, Kiefer (Katie) and Konner (Karalee) Standley, Aaron and Gage Schoonover, six beautiful great grandchildren, and sister, Vicki (Dennis) Davis.
Per his wishes, Gary will be cremated and his ashes released, along with Sandra’s, in the woods of their family property during a private family gathering.
