Willie Vaughn Couch

W. Von Couch, 78, of Olive Branch, MS passed away at his home on Wednesday, August 24th, 2016. Mr. Couch was born on February 10, 1938 in Lexington, TN to the late John and Irene Couch. Mr. Couch was an Army veteran, a 33rd degree Mason, and member of New Beginnings Baptist Church in Olive Branch, MS. Mr. Couch left home at age 13 for St. Louis, where he worked multiple jobs before going to Union Trade School in Memphis, TN. He became a sheet metal worker at Shelton Sheet Metal before serving in the U.S. Army as a drill instructor, cook and he was called back during the Cuban Missile Crisis for one year. In 1965, Von opened Southland Sheet Metal, then opened Industrial Sheet Metal in 1970. He and his son, David, then began developing and investing in commercial real-estate, which became his life’s work. Mr. Couch was one of the first to develop industrial buildings in southeast Shelby County. Von had the vision and gift of being able to analyze real-estate and maximize its potential. His family and friends will always remember him for his charisma, humor, optimism and the smile on his face. His entire life was a testament to his passions: a deep love for family, friends, God and country, for which he will always be remembered. Mr. Couch was preceded in death by two brothers, Larry Don Couch and James E. Taylor, and a sister, Addie “Faye” Duke. He leaves his loving memories to be cherished by his son, David V. Couch, daughter, Deborah Couch Russell, and two granddaughters, Megan and Mallory, and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in the name of “William V. Couch/Dr. Sepesi” at MD Anderson Cancer Center (PO Box 4486, Houston, TX. 77210-4486 *credit card donations 1-800-525-5841) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and support by all who loved Von and his family. A private funeral service will be held; a Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at a later date.