James W. Vaughn, M.D.

Dr. James William Vaughn, 89, of Overland Park, KS, passed away Sunday, May 19th, 2013.

A celebration of his life will be held at McGilley and Hogue Johnson County Memorial Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Drive, Friday, May 24th, 2013 at 11 AM. Burial in Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, May 23rd, from 6-7:30 PM at McGilley-Hogue Johnson County Memorial Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Hospital, Kansas City, MO, or to Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church, 9300 Nall Ave., Overland Park, KS 66207.

James was born Sept. 9, 1923, in Emporia, KS., to Hazel and Dr. James Vaughn. He attended high school in Cincinnati, OH, and obtained his MD in psychiatry at University of Cincinnati. He practiced medicine at Robinson Memorial Hospital in Kansas City, MO, and also set up a private practice as well as worked at Social Security disability. In later years he practiced at various hospitals and penal institutions as a contracted physician. His career spanned 60 years. Psychiatry was James's passion and he thrived in helping others heal. He served his country in The Korean Conflict as a First Lieutenant in the Army. He married the love of his life, Joanne Miller, in 1950. They were married for 63 years. He was a member of the Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church, and served as a Deacon.

James was a loving family man, and adored his family. He had a wonderful sense of humor and an uncompromising zest for life that shone to all he knew. He was also an avid sports fan.

James is survived by wife, Joanne Miller Vaughn of Overland Park, KS; three sons, David J. Huet-Vaughn and wife Yolanda; Gregory R. Vaughn and wife Cidni; Paul S. Vaughn and wife Sylvia; and a daughter, Stephanie A. Bunkowski and husband Albert. He leaves four beloved grandchildren, Ryan Bunkowski, Emiliano Huet-Vaughn, Daniel Huet-Vaughn, and Consuelo Huet-Vaughn; and one great grandchild, Nicholas Huet-Vaughn.

James was preceded in death by his father, Dr. James Vaughn, mother Hazel Ida Brown Vaughn, and sister Shirley.

James was a beacon to his family and a loyal friend. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.