Obituary of John Ernest Vaughan

It is with heavy hearts that the family of John Ernest Vaughan announce his passing on October 22nd, 2023, at the Saint John Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.  Born on November 12th, 1948, in Saint John, he was the son of the late Ernest John and Josephine Helena (McKinney) Vaughan. 

John is survived by devoted daughters, Katherine Vaughan (Peter) and Emily Vaughan.  He is also survived by beloved granddaughter, Aliyah Vaughan-Hachey; ex-wife and close friend, Beth Vaughan; sister, Joan O’Leary; niece and nephew, Jackie and Brent Ainsworth; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.  Besides his parents, John was predeceased by infant son, Matthew Vaughan. 

John worked for Canada Post for 37 years, and many of his former coworkers could surely tell you some wild (often hilarious) stories about him.  He loved to talk about the days growing up in the north end and the people he knew, hockey, and football, especially the Toronto Maple Leafs and Las Vegas Raiders.  As of 2023, John had been sober 40 years, which he was very proud of.  Up until his health majorly declined in 2019, he attended AA meetings multiple times a week- often acting as a sponsor for those who needed one.  As gruff as John could pretend to be, he was a kind man who would give you the shirt off his back and last dollar in his pocket. The family is sad to now be without him, but it brings them peace to know he is no longer suffering.

Katherine and Emily would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff of 4BN, the Transitional Care Unit at the Saint John Regional Hospital, for their exceptional care of their dad over the last few months, especially in his final days.

Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424), with visitation from 1:00 - 4:00 PM on Wednesday, October 25th, 2023.  A funeral liturgy will be held on Thursday, October 26th, 2023 at 11:00 AM, with a reception and burial to follow. 

For those who wish, remembrances to Bobby’s Hospice, MADD Saint John & Area or the Saint John SPCA Animal Rescue in John’s name would be appreciated by the family.