Thurman Alexander Vaught Jr.'s Obituary
Alex Vaught passed away on April 16, 2020 in Dallas, TX surrounded by family and friends. Alex lived intentionally with a servant’s heart. He loved people and never met a stranger. “Poppy” Alex will always be remembered as a good friend, beloved father and grandfather who loved his family fiercely, loved popcorn, and all sports, especially UT longhorn football, the Rangers, and Cowboys, enjoyed his daily ”workouts” and fellowship with friends at the Cooper Center, loved world travel with dear friends, and his food!
Born on November 12, 1933 in Fort Worth, TX to Millie Vaught Heartwell and Thurman Alexander Vaught, Sr., he attended RL Paschal HS and graduated University of Texas in Austin in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts. As an active member of the Silver Spurs and Kappa Sigma fraternity, Alex created many lifelong friendships. On June 1, 1957, he married Ann M. Vaught, his college sweetheart. Separated by her passing in 2015, they remained married for 58 years.
After a successful career in the plastics industry, Alex found his true calling. With the heart of a servant, he faithfully fulfilled God’s mission for him. Rising at 4:30 a.m., Alex joyfully prepared breakfasts for the Tuesday Men’s breakfast. His grits were legendary. He nourished and nurtured a broader community at The Bridge’s Second Chance Café. For 15 years, Alex served as a team leader at the Bridge and at the Stewpot, feeding the homeless of Dallas. Furthermore, he delivered meals through the Meals on Wheels program. When Alex wasn’t cooking up a storm, you could find him behind the wheel, providing transport to the residents of Presbyterian Village North to his beloved church.
Alex was a Deacon and active member of the Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church where he ushered, greeted members, sold coffee for African mission assistance, and drove a golf cart to carry congregation members to church from remote lots. He also helped with community outreach, as a Stephen Minister. As friend Bob Orr said, “He is a quiet, selfless hero who does something every day to serve others . . . (Alex) does the heavy lifting with a cheerful heart, making each moment matter. “ Alex was recognized as an honoree for the Each Moment Matters award for his exceptional service to others.
Alex is survived by: his three daughters and their spouses: Melinda and Paul Cleaveland, Nancy Vaught Matise, Molly and Lee Heironimus; grandchildren: McRae “Mac” Cleaveland, Brock and Brooke Taylor Dudley, Annie and Emily Heironimus; his brother: Richard Heartwell, Jr. and spouse Fran; and Mary Jane Bowles, his loving partner. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Ann M Vaught.
Due to the current situation, a private family graveside service will be held followed by a celebration of Alex’s life, date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Stewpot, located at Thestewpot.org (Donatetoday)
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