Search by Name

Search by Name

Vaughan Johnson Obituary

Vaughan Monroe Johnson was one of the fiercest, hardest hitting football players in New Orleans Saints history and one of the kindest and most generous people off the field. Vaughan was known for his big heart and even bigger smile. He died after a two year battle with Kidney disease Thursday, December 12, 2019. Vaughan is survived by his wife of 13 years, Shirley Johnson; his three sons, Brandon, Bryan and Michael; and daughter, Vonda Johnson. He has three grandchildren Kenneth, Leah and Ava Johnson. Vaughan is also survived by his sister, Adrienne Harris and a brother, Zebbie Johnson.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Times-Picayune from Dec. 14 to Dec. 15, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Vaughan Johnson

Not sure what to say?





Orlando

December 23, 2023

RIP to Mr. Vaughan Johnson. My sincere condolences to his family. The Saints are my team and I remember he Mr. Rickey Jackson,Mr. Pat Swilling and the late Great Mr. Sam Mills dominated opposing teams. Another great player gone to soon. Number 53 Mr. Vaughan Johnson. I don´t know why I didn´t even know hew was sick.

Marcia Jones

May 3, 2023

I knew Vaughan Johnson since I was young. I met them when my mom would help drive Vonda and Michael to school. I then had the privilege to student teach both of them. I have since kept in contact as we all went to the same church. I have seen his influence on other young people through football and church. He has always had a smile on his face and been a kind person. The world has been a little less without you in it. Til we meet you again.

December 20, 2019

RIP Vaughan,you will always be remembered as a N.O Saint', my heartfelt condolences to your family.

DSD NOLA C/0 W.D.A

Adrienne

December 20, 2019

My deepest sympathy to the Johnson Family. May the Lord Comfort you all in your time of need. A life member of the WHO DAT Nation.

Yolanda J. Ash

December 20, 2019

My condolences and sincerest prayers are with your entire family at this time. Vaughan was an incredible human being and a great friend over the years. I pray comfort and healing for those who knew and loved him. His gentle nature and kind heart will be missed. Although we haven't spoken in nearly 20 years, hearing of his death has absolutely floored me. I can only imagine the pain his family is experiencing at this time. He definitely touched lives in the short time he was here on Earth.

Warmest regards and prayers for healing in your hearts,

Yolanda J. Ash and family

December 18, 2019

Dear Johnson Family, we cover you with our love and our prayers for your Strength, your Comfort and God's Peace. Surrender your hearts to God and trust Him for your healing. Although we did not know Vaughn personally, we feel a strong connection to him ever since he became a New Orleans Saint and member of the DOME PATROL. He was a force to be reckoned with and thrilled us as fans every game. Thank you for sharing him with us. We pray that the same tears which are in sadness now, will also warm your hearts with happiness through your memories.
Your brother and sister in Christ,
N.O. Saints fans,
Ed and Frances Ventress

Fredrick Howell

December 18, 2019

Vaughn was a Big man with a Big heart. Our lives crossed at N.C. State and and a friendship started. My wife and I had a great time in New Orleans thanks to Vaughn. RIP my Brother we will meet again.

Brenda Blanco

December 16, 2019

Valeria,
I was sorry to learn of the passing of your son. I know your faith will help you through this time of grief.

A Eddington

December 15, 2019

Me and mom are praying for you Mrs. Shirley, we love and miss you. The Eddington family

December 15, 2019

May your soul rest in God's peace,
Condolences and much love to your family.

DSD NOLA

Susan Bell Garner

December 15, 2019

Vaughan was such a special person. One of the nicest people you will ever meet. It was always a good time when we would talk about the old times in high school. He will be truly missed.

Tonya Bass

December 14, 2019

Truly sorry for your loss Shirley you and your family will be in my prayers and thoughts.

Josh Cannon

December 14, 2019

Vaughn was one of the largest, most imposing looking athletes i have ever met. This was what most people saw when they saw him but if you spent more than 1 second in his presence it was clearly obvious he was kind, gentle, loving, humble and genuinely compassionate toward everyone. He loved his children, he loved God, he loved his church and he loved his community.

It was my absolute pleasure to know the man from a young age. Every Sunday he would shake my hand and greet me with a booming and vibrant "Hello young man." amd ask me how i was doing. The world is a lesser place because of his absence.

Vaughn, we will meet again and i truly look forward to it.

Willa Dunn

December 14, 2019

To the Johnson family I'm very very sorry for your loss of your loved one you couldn't ask for better person his smile the jokes he made he made football interesting to watch whether he was on the field or off Von knew the game of football and to his wife Shirley again I am very sorry for the loss of your love God knows Best

LILLIAN COLAR

December 14, 2019

Blessings to the soul of such a great New Orleans Saints player... V. J. and
"DA DOME PATROL" was a beast.
Thanks for the memories.
GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY

December 14, 2019

Born in New Orleans and having traveled the world, I always loved the New Orleans Saints since their inception. Vaughan Johnson was and still is an integral part of the Saints' history. I remember him as a consummate player and a good man on and off the field. I send my love and condolences to his family and friends. He has a place in our hearts.

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results

Make a Donation
in Vaughan Johnson's name

Memorial Events
for Vaughan Johnson

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Vaughan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Vaughan Johnson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more