William K. Vaught

William K. Vaught, a distinguished 20-year veteran of the United States Navy, peacefully departed this earthly realm on February 20, 2025, in Winter Springs, Florida, at the age of 95. Born on November 25, 1929, Wynne, Arkansas he embarked on a remarkable journey that would take him across the world, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to know him.

A proud veteran, William dedicated his life to serving his country with honor and valor. His naval career was marked by illustrious achievements, including service during the Korean War and completing two Antarctic expeditions with the esteemed Admiral Byrd, for which he was awarded the Antarctica Service Medal.  He continued to serve, contributing his skills at the Defense Depot in Memphis, where he played a pivotal role in supporting the military.

William found great joy in community engagement, participating in programs such as the Honor Flight from Winter Springs,, which recognized and celebrated veterans' sacrifices. His commitment to service extended to his church, where he was an active member of Cross Life Church in Oviedo, Florida, participating in the Home Bound Visitation Team, spreading love and kindness to those in need. As a life member of Mariner Lodge No. 2 in Charleston, South Carolina, he embraced the values of brotherhood and charity.  He was a member of Bolivar First Baptist Church during the time he lived in Bolivar.

Though he touched the lives of many, William was also fortified by the love of his cherished family. He is survived by his three devoted daughters: Elizabeth Vaught-Jenkins of Roanoke, Virginia, Vickie Vaught-Burlison (Steve) of Winter Springs, Florida, and Patricia Vaught-Bishop (Gary) of Counce, Tennessee. His legacy continues through a vibrant generation that includes grandchildren Angela Burlison Gustafson (Scott), Aaron Burlison (Jubeth), Anne R. Jenkins, Austin Bishop (Krista), and Amanda Bishop, as well as eight great-grandchildren. He was also a beloved brother to Rose Jeannette Mobley of Coweta, Oklahoma, and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews who carry forward his spirit of kindness.

William’s journey was not without its heartaches; he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eleanor Kay Ferguson Vaught, his brother, Howard Vaught, his nephew, Johnny Vaught, and his devoted parents, Ernest Raymond Vaught and Goldie Henderson Vaught, whose memories will forever remain etched in the hearts of all who loved him.

The family would like to thank the many friends and relatives that loved Dad and provided much joy to his life.  Thank you to kind and thoughtful neighbors, David and Esther, Winter Springs, Florida.  Thank you to his friends from CrossLife Church in Oviedo, Florida, with special love and appreciation to Neville Pike.  Thank you to the ministers and friends from Second Presbyterian in Roanoke, Virginia, with special love to Rev. Elizabeth Link.  Thank you to the friends in Bolivar and Counce, Tennessee who have opened their hearts to dad and our family throughout the years and especially in the last few weeks.

Appreciation to Watermark at Vistawilla/Memory Care staff, and the staff of Vitas Hospice of Winter Springs, Florida, for the loving care and support provided to dad and our family.  Nurse Ashley is truly an angel on earth whose love and care for our dad made all the difference.

The celebration of William Kenneth Vaught’s extraordinary life will be held on March 1, 2025, at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Bolivar, Tennessee. Friends and family are welcomed to join in honoring his memory during a visitation at 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service commencing at 2:00 PM. His interment will take place at Mt. Comfort Cemetery in Hickory Valley, Tennessee, where he will be laid to rest next to his wife and surrounded by love and remembrance.

In this farewell, we honor a dedicated sailor, a loving father and grandfather, a steadfast friend, and an embodiment of service and commitment. His life inspires us all to share kindness and compassion, guiding future generations to walk in the footsteps of his noble legacy.