Thelma Louise Vaughn

Thelma Louise (Rowe) Vaughn, daughter of James and Willie Mae (Ware) Rowe, was born on September 20, 1935, in Dadeville, Alabama. She later moved to Struthers, Ohio, where she spent most of her childhood living with her aunt, Lodeska, and uncle, Albert Young. During high school, she met her future husband, Leroy Vaughn, before returning to Alabama, where she graduated. After graduating, Thelma married Leroy on June 4, 1954, and returned to Struthers with him to begin their family.

Thelma was a devoted homemaker for many years before beginning her career at the Mahoning County Nursing Home as a nurse’s aide. She later earned her LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) certification and completed her career with Planned Parenthood in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1993. Thelma was a faithful member of Pilgrim Baptist Church for 84 years. During her time at Pilgrim, she served in many roles, including choir member, Nurses Guild member, Culinary Committee member, and deaconess. Because of her strong Christian faith, Thelma also served the community as a caregiver for the sick and shut-in for many years. She was a role model and mother figure to many extended family members and friends, including her nephew, James Rowe.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of 71 years, Leroy Vaughn; her sons, Frederick David (Valerie) Vaughn, Roderick Derrick (Susan) Vaughn, and Leroy Darrel (Ritza) Vaughn; and her nephew, James Rowe. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Wayne Vaughn, Joi Vaughn, Demi Vaughn, Ray Vaughn, Sotiri Vaughn, Zoi Vaughn, and Mia (Vaughn) Papadimitriou; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Clinton (Clatie) Rowe and David (Helena) Rowe; and her sister, Graci Lee (James) Rowe-Sistrunk. 

Visitation will be Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. at the Pilgrim Baptist Church, 67 McClure Street, Struthers, OH.  A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 a.m.

Ministry of comfort and dignity entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.

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