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Gwendolyn Bennett "Wendy" Vaughan

1976 - 2023

Gwendolyn Bennett "Wendy" Vaughan obituary, 1976-2023, Falls Church, VA

Gwendolyn Vaughan Obituary

Vaughan, Gwendolyn Bennett "Wendy", 47 of Falls Church, VA formerly of Ashland, VA passed away on Sunday, October 29th. Wendy is the beloved daughter of the late Gwendolyn Corker Bennett. Wendy is survived by her son, Hayes Vaughan, the light of her life; his father and lifelong friend Matt Vaughan; Bill Rooney, partner in life and adventure; her father Ken Bennett and brother Ken Nonken, and Polly, her beloved Frenchie. She will also be deeply missed by her dear Aunt Hilda (Kelly), as well as many loving cousins and wonderful friends.

Wendy is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor and Master of Social Work, and a definite RAM FAN! She dedicated her life to the service of others, starting her career with the Alexandria Community Services Board in 1997 as a therapist and presently serving as Mental Health and Substance Abuse Residential Director. This has been more than a place of work, a truly supportive family caring for each other and the community.

Wendy loved watching her son play sports and play with Polly. She enjoyed her time with family and truly treasured all her relationships, especially with "the girls". Thank you for all the love and support provided by so many during this battle to kick cancer's butt. It will never be forgotten...and neither will Wendy Vaughan!

A celebration of life will be held at Falls Church Presbyterian Church, 225 E. Broad Street Falls Church, Virginia on November 9th at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to support Hayes's college fund at: www.virginia529.com/gifting (code: ZTQR08W)

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

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Nov. 2 to Nov. 3, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Gwendolyn Vaughan

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Brenda Gilman

June 1, 2025

Honoring Wendy´s upcoming birthday, I want to share this sweet story about Wendy that took place the summer after she completed her kindergarten year at Henry Clay School in Ashland, VA. She was attending a local summer camp where I served as camp director. Her group of campers was crossing a road on our way to a camp activity. Wendy discovered a dead frog that had been run over. She looked down at little frog and declared to her fellow campers that the frog had gone heaven and now was with Jesus. I loved that she shared her declaration of faith.
I had the privilege of also being being Wendy´s kindergarten teacher. It was wonderful to have her in my class. She was an incredible role model for her fellow students. To know Wendy was to love her and I know she is now in heaven with Jesus.

Janis Gold

November 11, 2023

I learned this morning about Wendy's death. I am so sad. I remember her smile, her laugh and above all her fierce dedication to her clients. I wish her son and family peace of mind in the days ahead. Janis Gold

Mike Gilmore

November 8, 2023

Wendy´s kind and gentle ways with the people in her care made such a positive difference in their lives that they will long remember her. Their lives were enriched and their pain diminished. She made similar changes in the lives of her colleagues who saw firsthand how one person could create such wonderful change. Although she will be sorely missed, she will live on in the lives of so many people.

Brenda Gilman

November 8, 2023

What a privilege it was for me to teach Wendy in Kindergarten. She was always happy and so eager to learn. I loved getting to know her fun and wonderful personality. Again I had an opportunity to work with Wendy at Camp Lakeview in Ashland, where she was a camper and I, a counselor. I loved seeing life through her enthusiastic eyes. I know heaven is even better now that Wendy is there. RIP

Giordana De Altin Popiolek

November 5, 2023

I feel stunned that Wendy is gone. As I try to make sense out of this, I cannot even imagine being in her loved ones' shoes. I am terribly sorry for your immense loss, feel privileged for having known her (she was one of the very first person I met at the City), and send you all of my support. Enormous hug wishing strength.

Michelle Lohr

November 3, 2023

We are so sorry for your loss. Praying for you all during this time.

Barbara Clemens

November 3, 2023

I am so saddened by this, I will truly miss our texts back and forth, but will always remember your last one to me where you said you are so happy to have been given this extra time even though you knew cancer was going to win. You will be missed by many including myself. Soar high with the angels my friend as you will be soaring with some of mine.

Kim Agee Wilcox

November 2, 2023

I am terribly sorry for the loss of Wendy. Prayers lifted for her son, Hilda and those who were blessed enough to know and love her.

Robert Thompson

November 2, 2023

So sorry. Loved her spirit!

Judy M Little

November 2, 2023

A beautiful soul gone too soon...
May her soul and spirit continue to remind us that she was once among us.
In peace and love... .
Judy M. Little

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Memorial Events
for Gwendolyn Vaughan

Nov

9

Celebration of Life

11:00 a.m.

Falls Church Presbyterian Church

225 E. Broad Street , Falls Church, VA

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