Bob was born to Frances Curry Vaughn and Robert Eli Vaughn, on June 21, 1957 in Tampa, FL. A lifelong resident and Tampa native, Bob lived a distinguished, full life. Growing up in Brandon, FL, Bob and his three siblings enjoyed playing in the woods adventuring with a multitude of family friends, dogs, and the occasional farm animal. He attended high school at Tampa Catholic followed by Loyola University New Orleans, where he earned his B.A. in History. He earned his law degree at University of Puget Sound in Seattle, WA after which, he returned to Tampa to practice law.
Bob’s professional life was distinguished. He was a “lawyer’s lawyer” specializing in bankruptcy and insurance coverage litigation. During his time in private practice and his tenure as in-house counsel, he was tapped frequently for his expertise as a mentor, advocate, and law educator. He was a formidable opponent across the table. A proud member of the Florida Bar, his passion for the practice of law was unmatched. His presence in the office and the profession will be missed.
His family and friends knew Bob for his wry sense of humor and the many memorable impromptu gatherings he hosted over the years. Known by all for his incredible skill in the kitchen, he could whip up a delicious meal with anything on hand. He loved French and Italian flavors, but later in his life he developed a taste for a variety of worldly flavors. He even started writing a food blog (https://cookingwithbobvaughn.wordpress.com/). Bob also enjoyed traveling abroad, especially to Italy. He had a love for and vast knowledge of world history. In his spare time, he researched and documented his family’s ancestry, and collected fine silver, china, and artwork. Like a true Vaughn, his lap was always open for the family dog.
Bob loved his daughters, Grace and Madeleine, with all his heart. They called him Papa and they were his pride and joy. They will always remember his warm hugs, and his endless support and enthusiasm. Over the last three years, his life was further enriched with two grandsons whose daily antics kept him smiling.
Bob is survived by his former wife Lavinia “Vinnie” Vaughn, daughters Grace (Heather) and Madeleine Vaughn, grandsons Ellis James and Lane Robert Vaughn-Morin, and his siblings Glenn Vaughn (Mimi) and Frances Vaughn (Tom).
We have lost an irreplaceable person with a brilliant mind and tremendous sense of humor. In honor of his request, there will be no formal services. Donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), or Lambda Legal Defense Fund.
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