James Vaughn

James “Orthie” Vaughn, a man of remarkable mechanical skill and quiet generosity, passed away on March 9, 2026, at Autumn Oaks Assisted Living in Manchester, Tennessee. Born on September 26, 1935, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Orthie spent his life restoring and rebuilding with gifted hands. He found special joy in working on tractors and cars, devoting years of patient care to his beloved “Old Alice.” When he stepped away from the garage, he turned to the heartfelt strains of old-time country music, the only kind he believed was worth listening to.

The woods were his true sanctuary. Orthie spent countless peaceful hours among the trees, often with a cup of coffee in hand, finding meditation in the hunt. He tracked deer, squirrel, rabbit, turkey, and quail with steady focus, and in his younger years took great pride in his skill at hunting raccoons.

Above all, Orthie was known for his selfless heart. He was the first to step forward whenever a neighbor, friend, or stranger needed help, never expecting anything in return. His life was defined by quiet service and genuine kindness to everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ethel Vaughn, and his cherished wife of sixty years, Joyce Suzanne Vaughn. Orthie is survived by his daughter, LaShae Flowers and her husband, Mike; his grandchildren, Jordan Flowers and his wife, Lisa, and Kailee Flowers; as well as several brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held in Illinois later this summer.