Mary Lou Vaughan

Mary Lou Vaughan, a beloved wife, mother and homemaker, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, in Fairfax, Oklahoma. Born on May 20, 1948, in Fairview, Oklahoma, Mary Lou dedicated her life to nurturing her family and ensuring that each moment was filled with love, laughter, and warmth.

Throughout her life, she was an active presence in the lives of her grandchildren, drawing joy from being a part of their world. Mary Lou loved to cook and sew, ensuring that her family’s favorite dishes were always on the table. A woman with a spirit as adventurous as her heart was large, she cherished traveling with her family, visiting places such as New York, Canada, Branson, and West Virginia.

Mary Lou's caring nature extended beyond her immediate family. As a devoted foster parent, she opened her home to over 50 children, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, offering a safe harbor and loving support to those who needed it most.

She will be deeply missed by her loving daughter Shelley Chasenah and her husband Raymond Clyma of Muldrow, Oklahoma. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Brooklyn Vaughan and partner Maryonna High of Moore; Nichlas Chasenah of Apache; Dakota Clyma and his wife Elizabeth of Maryland; Jordan Clyma of Hot Springs; Jasmine Vaughan-Buffalo and her husband Clayton Entz; and Jillian Hoxsie. She held a special place in the hearts of her siblings, Robert Simpson of Ponca City, Patsy Streller and her husband Joe, John Vaughan and his wife LeAnn, Andy Vaughan, Mark Vaughan and his wife Anita, Linda Notovny, and Jerry Smith.

Mary Lou also had a large extended family, including nieces and nephews Joshua Hubert, Nichole Ramirez, Patrick Barnwell, Sharon Parks and her husband Neil, Cindy Boman and her husband Rex, Kimberly Jeter, Dylan Jeter, Bryan Vaughan, Jonathan Vaughan and his wife Trisha, Lacey Carson and her husband Logan, Timothy Vaughan and his wife Darcey, Andrew Vaughan, Gracie Vaughan, Hope Vaughan, Hannah Vaughan, Wendy Myers and her husband Brian, Michael Vaughan, Jessie Vaughan and his wife Janel, April Smith, and Sara Harper and her husband Christopher. Her cousin, Curtis White, and beloved dog Zoe was also dear to her.

Mary Lou is reunited in spirit with her parents Melvin Clinton Simpson and Alta Ann Simpson, cherished daughter, Lisa Vaughan, and her beloved siblings, Melvin Simpson, Wanda Shamblin, Wilma Simpson, and her dog, Subella. Their memories will forever remain a part of her story.

The family will welcome friends for visitation at Brown-Dugger Funeral Home in Perry, Oklahoma, on October 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held the following Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the First Assembly of God Church of Perry. Burial will follow at the Hennessey Cemetery in Hennessey,Oklahoma

As Mary Lou leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and connection, her spirit will continue to inspire all who were touched by her kindness. Her memory will be honored and cherished by all.