It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Marthajayne (MJ) Vaughan, 88, on June 4, 2026. MJ was born on August 21, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Martha (Balthrop) and J.C. Morris.
The three moved to Cody, Wyoming, in 1945, where J.C. had a job at Husky Refinery. They later owned a family grocery store until they moved to Laramie, Wyoming, when MJ was a senior in high school. She graduated from Laramie High School and attended both Cody and Laramie High School reunions, maintaining lasting friendships with people from both schools.
MJ attended the University of Wyoming, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1959 and receiving her master’s degree in 1962. She married Charles Ferrin in 1958, and they had a daughter, Marty. After her divorce, MJ married Charles (Chuck) Vaughan in 1962. MJ and Chuck had two sons, Eddie and Jon. They owned and managed Center Pharmacy until Chuck’s death in 1982. MJ then continued to manage Center Pharmacy until she sold it in 1993 and moved to Fort Collins with Marty in 2001.
MJ was a member of Alpha Chapter #1, Order of the Eastern Star, in Laramie, where she received her 50-year pin. She supported Job’s Daughters and DeMolay through the years. MJ helped start Project Graduation for Laramie High School graduating seniors and was active in the Laramie business community. She enjoyed bridge, golf, and watching Wyoming Cowboys sports.
After retiring to Fort Collins, MJ continued to play bridge, walk with her neighbors, and enjoy water aerobics classes at the Fort Collins Senior Center.
MJ is survived by her daughter, Marty; son Eddie (CeeAnn); son Jon (Patti); and stepdaughter Laurie Dyke (George). She is also survived by her grandchildren Robert, Lisa, Jordan, Jessica, Ashley, Stephanie, Hadley, Corinne, and Libby, as well as eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Martha and J.C.; her husband, Chuck Vaughan; and her stepdaughter, Janine Arnold.
MJ loved the Wyoming Cowboys and was a Cowboy fan for life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Laramie Plains Museum or the Animal Humane Society in your area.
MJ will be laid to rest at Greenhill Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held from 10:00-12:00 p.m. July 6, 2026 at the Fort Collins Senior Center – 1200 Raintree Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80526
What a wonderful lady. The smile and twinkle in her eyes said it all. Job's Daughters was so much fun because of people like her. So grateful that Mrs. Vaughan was a part of my growing up years. Peace and love to you all!
Thank you, Stephanie! Mom enjoyed being a part of Jobs Daughters and helping direct us.
Many prayers for comfort and peace, my sincere condolences for your loss. MJ is celebrating her new life with Jesus! 🙏🏻
Thank you, Sue! Marty
I will always remember your mom as the person who took the Jobies and DeMolays to the cabin and taught me to pop gum without blowing a bubble. Her smile could calm nerves, ease pain, and bring light to any situation. She made an indelible mark on my heart and my life, and I will be forever grateful for that. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Peace be with you.
Thank you, Gwen! We still have the banner/flag you and the other Jobs Daughters made. Love you! Marty
I was so sad to hear of MJ’s passing. Her smile and constant participation in Aqua Aerobics with the City of Fort Collins will always bring a smile to my face. She was a trooper!! She will be missed. My condolences to the Vaughan family. Suzy Danford
Thank you Suzy. You were one of Mom's favorite people. Definitely one of mine. Love you, Marty
Sorry to hear of Marty’s passing. The Vaughan family was part of my neighborhood as well as, part of the Thayer School family. Love them all! I lost track of Marty after her move to Fort Collins but it sounds like she continued to spread her sunny, upbeat personality with many. Hugs to all, Kathleen Scott
Thank you, Mrs. Scott! You are fondly remembered as a favorite teacher. Mom is at peace. Marty, Eddie and Jon
I was sadden to here of the loss of your mother, Jon. While I knew your father very well, I met your mother and remember her fondly. How could I forget "Project Graduation" during your tenure as Student Body President. Please accept my heartfelt condolences to you, Marty and Eddie. Ryan Fulton
Thank you Dr. Fulton.
Marty, Your parents were always so kind to me. I'll always remember your mom's smile. Soni
Soni, Thank you! Marty, Eddie and Jon
My family treasured Marthajayne and the entire Vaughan family over decades. MJ will be remembered in our hearts as a classy, sassy, kind and loving lady. Few people leave such a mark—a reflection of a life well lived. We have always loved her and send love to the Vaughan clan. Sherrill Veal and the entire Veal-Singleton-Reese clan.
Thank you Sherrill, we loved growing up with you and Barbara. I like to think our parents are celebrating being together again. Love you! Mart