Mary Lynn Vaughan

Mary Lynn (Hof) Vaughan of Fresno, CA passed away peacefully at home on Monday, June 2, 2025. She was the devoted wife to James of Fresno, CA. She leaves 2 children, Scott Vaughan-Bonterre and spouse Andre of Oakland, CA, and Tiffany Mach and husband Clifford of Fresno, CA. Additionally, she leaves two adored granddaughters, Katrina Mach and Natasha Mach. She is also survived by her sister Cathy (Hof) Gorham. She is predeceased by her youngest sister Stephanie (Hof) Phelps (2015) and her oldest grandchild Garrick Vaughan Mach (2002). She is adored by many nieces and nephews.

Mary was born on August 8, 1942 in Fresno, CA to Elmer and Mary Hof. As a kid she always loved holidays and was loyal to her family. As a young adult Mary worked in her father's medical office, and also at worked at Drug Fair in the Tower District. Mary's primary-level education was in Fresno. Mary graduated from Fresno High School in 1960 and attended UCLA and obtained a bachelor's degree in education from Fresno State in 1965. She also received a master's degree in education from the University of La Verne in 1978. Mary maintained close friendships throughout her adult life with childhood friends, like the Burney group. Mary was a life-long educator, starting as a Kindergarten teacher at Winchell Elementary school in the Fresno Unified School District. After multiple positions at FUSD, she moved to Fowler Unified School District as a Principal and then Director of Instructional Services. She ended her career as the Assistant Superintendent for the Firebaugh-Las Deltas Unified School District. After retiring from full-time work, Mary continued to consult with Springboard Schools helping school districts increase their student success. Post retirement, Mary's passion turned to learning the craft, art, and skill of playing bridge. She played as many games as she could and was very proud when she won and had "good cards." She met some amazing people along the way. Another passion for Mary was the Fig Garden Women's Club (a.k.a "The Club"). Many fun times were had at the club. Mary was an active member since 2014 and worked yearly in the Electronics Dept. for Trash to Treasures, was Chair of Penny Pines, and was the club's Parliamentarian. She was also a fan of the Fresno Community Concert Band and Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre. Throughout Mary's life she was a lover of Dinkey Creek, CA and when she and Jim had an opportunity to buy a cabin, they jumped at it. Because Mary was a schoolteacher early in her career, the family would spend many weeks each summer at the cabin. This retreat was a legacy that she and Jim built for their family and there have been, and will continue to be for years to come, lots of joyful, connected moments. Mary had a keen eye for style, was always impeccably dressed and had a very elegant home. Jim and Mary's home was always a warm and special gathering place for the family during holidays, birthdays, and other special events. She was always thoughtful in her giving to others. Mary was an avid reader her whole life and was very enthusiastic about collecting and finishing crossword puzzles.

"Mary will be missed deeply by her family, and by all who knew her."

A Celebration of Life is being planned for August 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in memory of Mary Vaughan to the Fig Garden Women's Club at P.O. Box 5012, Fresno, CA 93755.