Mrs. Mary F. Vaughan

On August 21, 2025, heaven gained a remarkable woman. Mary F. Vaughan (née Britt), 78, of Hampton, Virginia, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 12, 1947, in Conway, North Carolina, Mary was the daughter of Helen and Obie Britt and grew up in a lively, close-knit household with seven siblings.

Mary was the kind of person who brought joy and energy wherever she went. She had a great smile and a laugh that could fill a room, and she loved her family fiercely, never missing a chance to lend a helping hand. She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen Britt and Obie Britt, her sisters Minnie Farmer and Janie Britt, and her husband, Vernon Vaughan. She leaves behind her siblings Doris Britt, Helen Britt, Barbara Wiggins, Larry Britt, and Obbie Britt, who will always carry her memory in their hearts.

In 1964, Mary married her lifelong partner, Vernon Vaughan. Together they raised four daughters, each of whom carry her strength and humor: Debra Vaughan (Joe Dargan), Darleen Vaughan (Robert Wilkins), Mary Vaughan (Ronald Jarvis) Wendy Bright (Cleveland). Her love only grew with each new generation—her grandchildren Laron Vaughan, Jamal Vaughan, Jerome Vaughan, Helen Vaughan, and Kyla Blount (Adrian), her great-grandchildren, and her many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Mary worked hard and gave her all in everything she did. For over 30 years, she served as Cafeteria Manager at Mary Immaculate Hospital, where her kindness and steady presence touched countless lives. With Vernon, she fulfilled a dream by opening Vaughan’s Soul Food Restaurant, where the community could gather around the food she loved to cook. She also volunteered in the Grandparent Program with Newport News Public Schools, giving children the same care and encouragement she gave her own.

Mary was a devoted member of Ivy Baptist Church, where her faith and service were an important part of her life.

Her passions were as vibrant as she was—gardening, shopping, cooking, and caring for others. She had a surprising love for fast cars and speed, a reminder that her spirit was full of adventure. But above all, she loved her family. They were her greatest joy and her proudest accomplishment.

Mary’s life was a gift to all who knew her. Though she is no longer here with us, the love she poured into her family and community, along with her unforgettable smile and laughter, will live on forever.

It is the desire of the Vaughan family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mrs. Mary F.  Vaughan has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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