Vaughn "Harry Bum" Smith's Obituary
Vaughn Smith, age 79, of Crosby, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 7, 1945, in Houston, Texas, to Mary Opal and Nelson Vaughn Smith, Vaughn lived a life full of love, hard work, and dedication.
On November 11, 1968, Vaughn married the love of his life, Ginger Kay Wareham, in Houston, Texas. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Vaughn was the proud owner and operator of Smith Septic Service for over 60 years, a business he built with his own hands and heart.
A proud veteran, Vaughn served his country in the Army from December 11, 1967, to December 18, 1969, achieving the rank of PVT E-1. He was also a dedicated member of the VFW and American Legion, where he formed lifelong friendships and shared his stories of service.
Vaughn had a zest for life that was evident in his many hobbies. He loved fishing, dancing, and camping, and he cherished every moment spent outdoors. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his beloved family, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Vaughn is survived by his daughters, Marilyn Caldas and her husband Ely Caldas of New Braunfels, Texas, and Crystal Jeane of Crosby, Texas; his sons, Mickey Smith and his wife Yvonne Smith of Atascocita, Texas, Tommy Smith and his wife Rachel Smith of Houston, Texas, Ronald Smith and his wife Ashli Smith of New Caney, Texas, and Preston Smith and his wife Debbie Smith of Kyle, Texas; his sister, Patsy Thorndyke and her husband Booney Thorndyke of Texarkana, Arkansas; 14 grandchildren: Jessica, Kassie, Kayla, Rachel, April, Eric, Robert, Greg, Megan, Abbi, J.J., Nicholas, Melissa, and Monica; and 19 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ginger Wareham Smith; his brothers, Nelson Eddie Smith and Mickey Smith; his parents, Nelson Vaughn Smith and Mary Opal Smith; and his grandparents, Charlotte Smith and Matthew Smith, and Jack Hall and Maggie Hall.
Vaughn's legacy of love, dedication, and hard work will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
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