Thomas James Gregory Vaughan

I just saw this reminder...and what came to mind to say was that I just recently came a cross a copy of Tom's book "True Lies" and I intend to dose myself again with his wit and in this case quirky and unique story telling style.

Great Man, great wit, funny man...Great leader, great mind...and so kind. I was fortunate to work at OHS during 10 years of his leadership. Elizabeth was wonderful also. What a couple!...Two I will never forget and always have fondness in my heart for the memories.

Dear Vaughans: If you've looked through your father's last papers you'd have found a letter that Pauly and I sent not long before he passed in which we told him how much he'd meant to us for over 40 years. He and Sherry were like extended family. I plan to write you as soon as I can get addresses off the Internet. Then I can tell you more. We've heard that that will be a memorial in the spring. Please let us know when. Unfortunately, we couldn't attend the one for Sherry. [email protected]

I was thinking of Mr. Vaughan yesterday afternoon as I saw his star in the bricks next to the Preforming Arts Center on my way to see the Samurai Exhibit. Thinking about him brought back fond memories. I though how grateful I was to work under his leadership for several years. They were very special times. I also remember the wonderful experience I had working with Mrs. Vaughan. She was a very gracious and beautiful person.
I just read in the Oregonian last night that he past away on...

Tom was one of those rare individuals who has left a permanent footprint on Oregon. As executive secretary of the Oregon Geographic Names Board from 1961 to 1989, he personally traveled around the state to investigate name proposals for geographic features and places. The people of Oregon will greatly miss his enthusiasm and expertise.

The world has lost one of it's very best! He has so much history and fame,a mind one could only hope to have the smallest understanding of. He said to me, his children was always the best he had; not things but family. I have never known such a wonderful man. His family is the best anyone could hope to have. He is loved and will be forever missed.

Cameron and Lee- Thomas was a great man with incredible accomplishments. He and my dad worked together on many matters, and Thomas and Sherry were great friends with the Judge and Elizabeth. I remember going to their house up in the southwest hills many times, and how much I enjoyed listening to Thomas speak. The last time I personally saw him was at the ceremony for Mrs. Thomas Wright, who we all called Beaver. I send condolences on behalf of myself, Elizabeth, Whitney and his wife,...

He was the hero and champion of every small town historian.