Amy Cathryn Wells Vaughn entered this life in McDonald Army Hospital on Fort Eustis in Newport News, Newport News City County, Virginia at 8:21 a.m. on February 11th, 1972; she left the cares of Earth surrounded, held, kissed and in the prayers of family and friends at 7:40 p.m. on September 28th, 2018 in Houston Hospice, Houston, Harris County, Texas at the age of 46. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Gilbert Marshall; paternal grandparents, Robert and Elvira (Pena-Alfaro) Wells; adopted grandparents, Jack and Vicky Byrd and by her cousin, Nicolas Paul Marshall.
Amy was a Christian who loved life and all people, no matter their station in life. She was kind and considerate to all. She excelled in all she did; an honor student in High School and a member of Who's Who Among High School Students her Sophomore, Junior and Senior years. She began her professional life as a legal secretary and though she would later become a flight attendant, graduating Valedictorian of her class, she would find motherhood more important than travel. She returned to legal support as a para-legal and as a health, safety and environmental compliance professional. She was respected and loved by all who worked with her. She was a fiercely loyal friend and many would tell you she was their best friend. Throughout her life she maintained relationships with co-workers and friends from everywhere she worked, went to school and church. Amy was an exceptional wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter and sister. She put everyone's needs ahead of her own and without complaint. It was not unusual for Amy to stand in Wal-Mart for an hour listening to the cares and woes of complete strangers. Their loneliness and grief would break her heart and she would do what she could to ease their pain. Somehow, those in need would always find her and share their lives with her.
She is survived by her parents, Kelly and Connie Byrd and Rod Wells; her daughter, Megan; her grandmother, Marian Marshall; brother and sister-in-law, Geoff and Amy Wells; sisters, Katrina Byrd, Kimberly Wells and Sandra Stone. She is also survived by uncles and aunts, Bert and Sandra Marshall; Gordon and Cynthia Marshall; Terry and Angela Marshall; Bruce and Linda Marshall; Tim and Erin Nugent and Debbie Marshall; her ex-husband, Robert Vaughn; her long-time companion, Lonny Hall; nephews, Andrew, Brett, Clint and Harley; and nieces, LaNae, Kagen, and Kara; her cousins and many, many friends.
According to Amy's direction, her memorial service will be officiated by Pastor Jack Mooring and will be held at Celebration of Life Church in Baytown, Texas; 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2018. Speakers will include Pastor Todd Mooring, Jim and Terri Baker, Ray Highfield (represented by son, Scott), Bert Lohse, Tamera Phallan, Katrina Byrd, Laurie Washington and Megan Vaughn. Songs Amy selected will be sung by Holtz and Mooring cousins, Jack, Leland, Shelly and Lauren with sign language by Rick Threadgill.
Honorary pallbearers are long time close friends with as much as 43 years of history with Amy: Laurie Baker Washington, Tamera Ortman "Tami O" Phallan, Marsha Edwards Pasley, Ami Dobbins Blue, Angela Nowling Highfield, Cindy Stroud Reddick, Liana Choate, and Tobi Walls. Ushers are cousins, Ryan and Clayton Marshall.
Rejoice for our beloved Amy, our forever Valentine; we can look forward to that reunion in Heaven. We can hardly wait to hear her stories and see her wonderful smile. We are grateful to God to have been trusted with this precious spirit for her time in mortal life.
Ami Blue (Dobbins)
October 8, 2018
Life has never been lived without you. Laughing at me, or laughing with you, there was always a lighter side to things. Teaching me to cook, and making it different every time was part of "happy moments!"
Building confidence in friendship and teaching me unconditional love and acceptance. I don't know a greater place of Safety other than in the arms of Jesus.
You've taught me many things about being accepting of myself and others, and loving life to the fullest. That's what I intend to continue doing, in memory of you. You will forever be missed and always be a part of my greatest memories.
Words cannot fill the void that is left without you here. RIP my dearest and truest friend!
Ami B.
Jenny Hall Bellard
October 6, 2018
I've known Amy for many years, since she was a little girl - as we belonged to the same church. Being ten years older in age, I went my way and never saw little Amy grow up. I was fortunate enough that God brought her back into my life 3 years ago, no longer that little girl I remembered, but instead an intelligent, beautiful, caring, loving woman. She quickly became like another sister to me. She made several visits to my home; some for fun & hanging out and some because being that caring person, she helped me prepare for my wedding at home. No matter what the chore was, she tackled it always with a smile, laughing, joking around and to top it off - prepare us a good meal after a long day's work. We were blessed to share our wedding day with Amy. There will never ever be another Amy. I will forever love her and be reminded of her in my home, and my pictures. I cherish the memories we made together; we had fun making them. They say certain people are put in your life for certain reasons, if I had to guess I'd say she taught me how to love unconditionally, help a friend or stranger when you can, believe in the people around you and don't give up, live laugh & love to the fullest and dance in the rain like nobody is watching. I'll always love you, Amy.
Jenny Hall Bellard
Laurie Washington
October 6, 2018
I can't remember not knowing you.
Only that you were always there. You showed me the meaning of loyalty by the friendship that we shared.
I am a leader because you always said, "Go for it! I'll be right behind you!!!"
I am beautiful because you told me so.
I am Me because of You.
I miss you more than words can say.
RIP my beautiful friend. My life is forever changed because you where my friend.
I love you.
Rhonda Gordon
October 5, 2018
I remember having lunch with you a few months ago and catching up with each other.
Every time I pass by Bill's restaurant on Loop 494 I think of you.
I'm just sad we never had that girl's night we talked about.
You will be missed Amy, you were such a lovely soul and stunning woman.
Sandra Bensley
October 5, 2018
RIP Amy, Heaven has another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Liana Choate
October 4, 2018
I have so many fond memories of this lovely lady; from the moment we began working together over ten years ago - I knew I had a good friend for life. Amy made being at work like a constant happy hour - a day full of laughs and hilarious stories of her precious daughter Megan, and the shenanigans of her family and life long friends. We began the habit of "Pei Wei" Mondays - something that I still do with my own daughters now! She was there for me during the darkest time of my life as I went through a nasty divorce; giving me words of encouragement and advice the whole way through. She was my biggest fan and so happy for me when I got remarried to the love of my life. She is also responsible for recommending me for the job that I hold now, which I love so much.
Amy was truly the sweetest, most caring, helpful and friendly individual I have ever met. She had such love for her family and friends, and she was so proud of her daughter. Heaven truly gained an angel in her and she will be sorely missed here on Earth.
Rick Threadgill
October 4, 2018
My most recent memory of Amy was asking for prayer for Emily to find a job. Cindy Mooring was in prayer at early morning prayer, and that evening I received a text from Amy inquiring about the request. I gave her some information - didn't think much more about it, and a few hours later Amy texted me back and informed me she had taken care of it. Emily went to work that following Monday. I am grateful that Amy was in God's plans to help her. Amy was always wonderful to me and my family. In her younger days she would carry Emily around church on her hips (I can see her now) and it brings a smile to me, I have many memories of her. She will be missed but never forgotten. Amy, the Threadgill family is grateful you were in our lives.
Until that day we see His blessed face
Love
The Threadgill family
Jessica McGaugh
October 4, 2018
I have such fond memories of my "pigtail" twin. Often we would be mistaken for each other by our parents while at church and even have our pigtails pulled by them mistakenly thinking that we were each other. I love you my Slumber Party, Music Machine, Childhood friend and look forward to the day that we can meet again in a place where there is no more pain nor tears. Until then may you rest in the arms of God.
Tamara Phallan (Tami O):
As we were in the ICU in the last weeks occasionally Amy asked some of us to do some specific things for her. She asked me, and a few other people, to write something for her. She also knew I wouldn't be able to hold it together enough to actually read it myself at the service. Thank you sweet Amy for knowing me like that.
When I got home last night after witnessing the final precious moments with her in this world, I wanted to fulfill my promise to her and it was clear that a traditional statistical list of dates and places would not be what she would have wanted to describe her. Instead I would share a recipe because she was a fabulous cook and had a rare gift in the kitchen that helped spread love to so many. She often laughed at me and shook her head because I personally have a very limited food range. Despite that, I enjoyed our time in the kitchen and just hanging out with my longtime friend.
So, this became a task of finding the right ingredients to share that would represent her the way I see her. Amy was on the quieter side of feisty with an intensity that could not be mistaken for being timid. She radiated love and was yet somehow still stubborn and willful (in all the best ways). Like with food, she had a knack for pulling people together and helping them mix into unexpected results. Nobody needed to guess if they were one of her people. We each felt it. Amy was so incredibly smart, fiercely independent, and an unequaled problem solver. Those are some of the things she passed on to her daughter Megan.
If you wanted to see Amy's face light up, you only need to ask her about her Sweetie Pie Angel Girl. You would then certainly be entertained with a detailed story about Megan's latest happenings. If something distracted her mid story you could also count on her coming back and picking up exactly where she left off 30 seconds later, 30 minutes later, or 30 days if that is what it took. She was a great story teller.
Amy's world was geographically based mostly within about 50 miles from here, but her travels took her many places. She loved to cruise, cook, eat with her fingers, ride on the motorcycle, go fishing, the touch of a gentle massage, almost any craft project, to have someone brush her hair, and long warm hugs. She liked telling corny jokes, going shopping, and music she could feel down to her soul. She enjoyed being in a crowd but relaxed into a quiet bath beyond measure. She achieved many things but the greatest of these is shown in the people who gather to celebrate her life. Whether you know Amy from being part of her huge loud family (you know who you are), or, like me, you were collected in by some member of that family, maybe you came from her childhood church, her days in school, her time as a flight attendant, a paralegal, a wife, a mother of an amazing daughter, or just because you happened to meet her at Walmart. Each of us were blessed enough to have been in the circle of people touched by our Amy.
Many of you know she enjoyed food and flavors like a good cup of coffee, crunching on ice, a diet coke, roasted salted peanuts, a glass of red wine, spicy food, chili oil, sushi, brown mustard, a good piece of chocolate, a single bite or two of ice cream, homemade bread, and fresh vegetables, especially if they were home grown. All of these things brought her joy.
Amy Cathryn Vaughn cannot be defined by a beginning or an ending, those are just a date on a calendar. She was not limited by a map, or a specific list of ingredients, she was a mixture of so many things that I know to be wonderful. A timeless beauty, a graceful smile, a faithful love, gentle eyes, a nurturing mother, one heck of a sister, a strong woman, an organizer even while being a bit of a hoarder, a volunteer, a survivor, a warrior who rarely raised her voice, she balanced flavors and people in a way that was inspiring. Each time I begin to stir things together I will strive to be as fearless and brave as the example she has set. So, when you receive the inspiration to remember our Amy try her firecracker recipe . Feel free to adjust the ingredients to get a flavor that is just right for you…that is exactly what she would have wanted you to do.
Lars Kristiansson:
It is so hard to come to terms with Amy's passing and I think it will be a long while before it happens. I am so very sorry for your (our) loss of a wonderful woman.
I am very grateful for you allowing me to share her last few days with us and the love expressed by all who were there, will forever stand out, as a reminder of how much she meant to so many people.
Connie asked me to write down my special memories of Amy. It is hard, as there was no special event but rather, she was a comfort to have around – just like your favorite blanket!
English is not my native language and hence I often struggle to use the right words: Beautiful or lovely; Nice or kind; Fun or enjoyable etc. In describing Amy, however, it does not matter because she was ALL of that and so much more!
I have only known Amy for a relatively short time after I married in to your wonderful family. It is not always so easy to "fit in" to such new surroundings and get acquainted with your new family but with Amy it seemed like we had known each other for a lifetime already. So easy to talk and relate to, always interested in your history and boy would she share hers!
Amy stayed with us for a while some years back, when she needed some time to herself and we of course had lots of great moments over shared meals or just sharing stories to late in the evenings. I quickly found out that you would get her full story regardless of possible interruptions – it could be later that evening or even another day, when she would pick up where she left and get the rest off her mind and many times with a good giggle to follow!
She was the life of the party and I will miss her so much going forward.
She left us all far too soon.
Lost of love and my deepest sympathy to all of you,
Lars
Amy was a Christian who loved life and all people, no matter their station in life. She was kind and considerate to all. She excelled in all she did; an honor student in High School and a member of Who's Who Among High School Students her Sophomore, Junior and Senior years. She began her professional life as a legal secretary and though she would later become a flight attendant, graduating Valedictorian of her class, she would find motherhood more important than travel. She returned to legal support as a para-legal and as a health, safety and environmental compliance professional. She was respected and loved by all who worked with her. She was a fiercely loyal friend and many would tell you she was their best friend. Throughout her life she maintained relationships with co-workers and friends from everywhere she worked, went to school and church. Amy was an exceptional wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter and sister. She put everyone's needs ahead of her own and without complaint. It was not unusual for Amy to stand in Wal-Mart for an hour listening to the cares and woes of complete strangers. Their loneliness and grief would break her heart and she would do what she could to ease their pain. Somehow, those in need would always find her and share their lives with her.
She is survived by her parents, Kelly and Connie Byrd and Rod Wells; her daughter, Megan; her grandmother, Marian Marshall; brother and sister-in-law, Geoff and Amy Wells; sisters, Katrina Byrd, Kimberly Wells and Sandra Stone. She is also survived by uncles and aunts, Bert and Sandra Marshall; Gordon and Cynthia Marshall; Terry and Angela Marshall; Bruce and Linda Marshall; Tim and Erin Nugent and Debbie Marshall; her ex-husband, Robert Vaughn; her long-time companion, Lonny Hall; nephews, Andrew, Brett, Clint and Harley; and nieces, LaNae, Kagen, and Kara; her cousins and many, many friends.
According to Amy's direction, her memorial service will be officiated by Pastor Jack Mooring and will be held at Celebration of Life Church in Baytown, Texas; 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2018. Speakers will include Pastor Todd Mooring, Jim and Terri Baker, Ray Highfield (represented by son, Scott), Bert Lohse, Tamera Phallan, Katrina Byrd, Laurie Washington and Megan Vaughn. Songs Amy selected will be sung by Holtz and Mooring cousins, Jack, Leland, Shelly and Lauren with sign language by Rick Threadgill.
Honorary pallbearers are long time close friends with as much as 43 years of history with Amy: Laurie Baker Washington, Tamera Ortman "Tami O" Phallan, Marsha Edwards Pasley, Ami Dobbins Blue, Angela Nowling Highfield, Cindy Stroud Reddick, Liana Choate, and Tobi Walls. Ushers are cousins, Ryan and Clayton Marshall.
Rejoice for our beloved Amy, our forever Valentine; we can look forward to that reunion in Heaven. We can hardly wait to hear her stories and see her wonderful smile. We are grateful to God to have been trusted with this precious spirit for her time in mortal life.
Ami Blue (Dobbins)
October 8, 2018
Life has never been lived without you. Laughing at me, or laughing with you, there was always a lighter side to things. Teaching me to cook, and making it different every time was part of "happy moments!"
Building confidence in friendship and teaching me unconditional love and acceptance. I don't know a greater place of Safety other than in the arms of Jesus.
You've taught me many things about being accepting of myself and others, and loving life to the fullest. That's what I intend to continue doing, in memory of you. You will forever be missed and always be a part of my greatest memories.
Words cannot fill the void that is left without you here. RIP my dearest and truest friend!
Ami B.
Jenny Hall Bellard
October 6, 2018
I've known Amy for many years, since she was a little girl - as we belonged to the same church. Being ten years older in age, I went my way and never saw little Amy grow up. I was fortunate enough that God brought her back into my life 3 years ago, no longer that little girl I remembered, but instead an intelligent, beautiful, caring, loving woman. She quickly became like another sister to me. She made several visits to my home; some for fun & hanging out and some because being that caring person, she helped me prepare for my wedding at home. No matter what the chore was, she tackled it always with a smile, laughing, joking around and to top it off - prepare us a good meal after a long day's work. We were blessed to share our wedding day with Amy. There will never ever be another Amy. I will forever love her and be reminded of her in my home, and my pictures. I cherish the memories we made together; we had fun making them. They say certain people are put in your life for certain reasons, if I had to guess I'd say she taught me how to love unconditionally, help a friend or stranger when you can, believe in the people around you and don't give up, live laugh & love to the fullest and dance in the rain like nobody is watching. I'll always love you, Amy.
Jenny Hall Bellard
Laurie Washington
October 6, 2018
I can't remember not knowing you.
Only that you were always there. You showed me the meaning of loyalty by the friendship that we shared.
I am a leader because you always said, "Go for it! I'll be right behind you!!!"
I am beautiful because you told me so.
I am Me because of You.
I miss you more than words can say.
RIP my beautiful friend. My life is forever changed because you where my friend.
I love you.
Rhonda Gordon
October 5, 2018
I remember having lunch with you a few months ago and catching up with each other.
Every time I pass by Bill's restaurant on Loop 494 I think of you.
I'm just sad we never had that girl's night we talked about.
You will be missed Amy, you were such a lovely soul and stunning woman.
Sandra Bensley
October 5, 2018
RIP Amy, Heaven has another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Liana Choate
October 4, 2018
I have so many fond memories of this lovely lady; from the moment we began working together over ten years ago - I knew I had a good friend for life. Amy made being at work like a constant happy hour - a day full of laughs and hilarious stories of her precious daughter Megan, and the shenanigans of her family and life long friends. We began the habit of "Pei Wei" Mondays - something that I still do with my own daughters now! She was there for me during the darkest time of my life as I went through a nasty divorce; giving me words of encouragement and advice the whole way through. She was my biggest fan and so happy for me when I got remarried to the love of my life. She is also responsible for recommending me for the job that I hold now, which I love so much.
Amy was truly the sweetest, most caring, helpful and friendly individual I have ever met. She had such love for her family and friends, and she was so proud of her daughter. Heaven truly gained an angel in her and she will be sorely missed here on Earth.
Rick Threadgill
October 4, 2018
My most recent memory of Amy was asking for prayer for Emily to find a job. Cindy Mooring was in prayer at early morning prayer, and that evening I received a text from Amy inquiring about the request. I gave her some information - didn't think much more about it, and a few hours later Amy texted me back and informed me she had taken care of it. Emily went to work that following Monday. I am grateful that Amy was in God's plans to help her. Amy was always wonderful to me and my family. In her younger days she would carry Emily around church on her hips (I can see her now) and it brings a smile to me, I have many memories of her. She will be missed but never forgotten. Amy, the Threadgill family is grateful you were in our lives.
Until that day we see His blessed face
Love
The Threadgill family
Jessica McGaugh
October 4, 2018
I have such fond memories of my "pigtail" twin. Often we would be mistaken for each other by our parents while at church and even have our pigtails pulled by them mistakenly thinking that we were each other. I love you my Slumber Party, Music Machine, Childhood friend and look forward to the day that we can meet again in a place where there is no more pain nor tears. Until then may you rest in the arms of God.
Tamara Phallan (Tami O):
As we were in the ICU in the last weeks occasionally Amy asked some of us to do some specific things for her. She asked me, and a few other people, to write something for her. She also knew I wouldn't be able to hold it together enough to actually read it myself at the service. Thank you sweet Amy for knowing me like that.
When I got home last night after witnessing the final precious moments with her in this world, I wanted to fulfill my promise to her and it was clear that a traditional statistical list of dates and places would not be what she would have wanted to describe her. Instead I would share a recipe because she was a fabulous cook and had a rare gift in the kitchen that helped spread love to so many. She often laughed at me and shook her head because I personally have a very limited food range. Despite that, I enjoyed our time in the kitchen and just hanging out with my longtime friend.
So, this became a task of finding the right ingredients to share that would represent her the way I see her. Amy was on the quieter side of feisty with an intensity that could not be mistaken for being timid. She radiated love and was yet somehow still stubborn and willful (in all the best ways). Like with food, she had a knack for pulling people together and helping them mix into unexpected results. Nobody needed to guess if they were one of her people. We each felt it. Amy was so incredibly smart, fiercely independent, and an unequaled problem solver. Those are some of the things she passed on to her daughter Megan.
If you wanted to see Amy's face light up, you only need to ask her about her Sweetie Pie Angel Girl. You would then certainly be entertained with a detailed story about Megan's latest happenings. If something distracted her mid story you could also count on her coming back and picking up exactly where she left off 30 seconds later, 30 minutes later, or 30 days if that is what it took. She was a great story teller.
Amy's world was geographically based mostly within about 50 miles from here, but her travels took her many places. She loved to cruise, cook, eat with her fingers, ride on the motorcycle, go fishing, the touch of a gentle massage, almost any craft project, to have someone brush her hair, and long warm hugs. She liked telling corny jokes, going shopping, and music she could feel down to her soul. She enjoyed being in a crowd but relaxed into a quiet bath beyond measure. She achieved many things but the greatest of these is shown in the people who gather to celebrate her life. Whether you know Amy from being part of her huge loud family (you know who you are), or, like me, you were collected in by some member of that family, maybe you came from her childhood church, her days in school, her time as a flight attendant, a paralegal, a wife, a mother of an amazing daughter, or just because you happened to meet her at Walmart. Each of us were blessed enough to have been in the circle of people touched by our Amy.
Many of you know she enjoyed food and flavors like a good cup of coffee, crunching on ice, a diet coke, roasted salted peanuts, a glass of red wine, spicy food, chili oil, sushi, brown mustard, a good piece of chocolate, a single bite or two of ice cream, homemade bread, and fresh vegetables, especially if they were home grown. All of these things brought her joy.
Amy Cathryn Vaughn cannot be defined by a beginning or an ending, those are just a date on a calendar. She was not limited by a map, or a specific list of ingredients, she was a mixture of so many things that I know to be wonderful. A timeless beauty, a graceful smile, a faithful love, gentle eyes, a nurturing mother, one heck of a sister, a strong woman, an organizer even while being a bit of a hoarder, a volunteer, a survivor, a warrior who rarely raised her voice, she balanced flavors and people in a way that was inspiring. Each time I begin to stir things together I will strive to be as fearless and brave as the example she has set. So, when you receive the inspiration to remember our Amy try her firecracker recipe . Feel free to adjust the ingredients to get a flavor that is just right for you…that is exactly what she would have wanted you to do.
Lars Kristiansson:
It is so hard to come to terms with Amy's passing and I think it will be a long while before it happens. I am so very sorry for your (our) loss of a wonderful woman.
I am very grateful for you allowing me to share her last few days with us and the love expressed by all who were there, will forever stand out, as a reminder of how much she meant to so many people.
Connie asked me to write down my special memories of Amy. It is hard, as there was no special event but rather, she was a comfort to have around – just like your favorite blanket!
English is not my native language and hence I often struggle to use the right words: Beautiful or lovely; Nice or kind; Fun or enjoyable etc. In describing Amy, however, it does not matter because she was ALL of that and so much more!
I have only known Amy for a relatively short time after I married in to your wonderful family. It is not always so easy to "fit in" to such new surroundings and get acquainted with your new family but with Amy it seemed like we had known each other for a lifetime already. So easy to talk and relate to, always interested in your history and boy would she share hers!
Amy stayed with us for a while some years back, when she needed some time to herself and we of course had lots of great moments over shared meals or just sharing stories to late in the evenings. I quickly found out that you would get her full story regardless of possible interruptions – it could be later that evening or even another day, when she would pick up where she left and get the rest off her mind and many times with a good giggle to follow!
She was the life of the party and I will miss her so much going forward.
She left us all far too soon.
Lost of love and my deepest sympathy to all of you,
Lars
Amy Cathryn Wells Vaughn entered this life in McDonald Army Hospital on Fort Eustis in Newport News, Newport News City County, Virginia at 8:21 a.m. on February 11th, 1972; she left the cares of Earth surrounded, held, kissed and in the prayers of family and friends at 7:40 p.m. on September 28th, 2018 in Houston Hospice, Houston, Harris County, Texas at the age of 46. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Gilbert Marshall; paternal grandparents, Robert and Elvira (Pena-Alfaro) Wells; adopted grandparents, Jack and Vicky Byrd and by her cousin, Nicolas Paul Marshall.
Amy was a Christian who loved life and all people, no matter their station in life. She was kind and considerate to all. She excelled in all she did; an honor student in High School and a member of Who's Who Among High School Students her Sophomore, Junior and Senior years. She began her professional life as a legal secretary and though she would later become a flight attendant, graduating Valedictorian of her class, she would find motherhood more important than travel. She returned to legal support as a para-legal and as a health, safety and environmental compliance professional. She was respected and loved by all who worked with her. She was a fiercely loyal friend and many would tell you she was their best friend. Throughout her life she maintained relationships with co-workers and friends from everywhere she worked, went to school and church. Amy was an exceptional wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter and sister. She put everyone's needs ahead of her own and without complaint. It was not unusual for Amy to stand in Wal-Mart for an hour listening to the cares and woes of complete strangers. Their loneliness and grief would break her heart and she would do what she could to ease their pain. Somehow, those in need would always find her and share their lives with her.
She is survived by her parents, Kelly and Connie Byrd and Rod Wells; her daughter, Megan; her grandmother, Marian Marshall; brother and sister-in-law, Geoff and Amy Wells; sisters, Katrina Byrd, Kimberly Wells and Sandra Stone. She is also survived by uncles and aunts, Bert and Sandra Marshall; Gordon and Cynthia Marshall; Terry and Angela Marshall; Bruce and Linda Marshall; Tim and Erin Nugent and Debbie Marshall; her ex-husband, Robert Vaughn; her long-time companion, Lonny Hall; nephews, Andrew, Brett, Clint and Harley; and nieces, LaNae, Kagen, and Kara; her cousins and many, many friends.
According to Amy's direction, her memorial service will be officiated by Pastor Jack Mooring and will be held at Celebration of Life Church in Baytown, Texas; 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2018. Speakers will include Pastor Todd Mooring, Jim and Terri Baker, Ray Highfield (represented by son, Scott), Bert Lohse, Tamera Phallan, Katrina Byrd, Laurie Washington and Megan Vaughn. Songs Amy selected will be sung by Holtz and Mooring cousins, Jack, Leland, Shelly and Lauren with sign language by Rick Threadgill.
Honorary pallbearers are long time close friends with as much as 43 years of history with Amy: Laurie Baker Washington, Tamera Ortman "Tami O" Phallan, Marsha Edwards Pasley, Ami Dobbins Blue, Angela Nowling Highfield, Cindy Stroud Reddick, Liana Choate, and Tobi Walls. Ushers are cousins, Ryan and Clayton Marshall.
Rejoice for our beloved Amy, our forever Valentine; we can look forward to that reunion in Heaven. We can hardly wait to hear her stories and see her wonderful smile. We are grateful to God to have been trusted with this precious spirit for her time in mortal life.
Ami Blue (Dobbins)
October 8, 2018
Life has never been lived without you. Laughing at me, or laughing with you, there was always a lighter side to things. Teaching me to cook, and making it different every time was part of "happy moments!"
Building confidence in friendship and teaching me unconditional love and acceptance. I don't know a greater place of Safety other than in the arms of Jesus.
You've taught me many things about being accepting of myself and others, and loving life to the fullest. That's what I intend to continue doing, in memory of you. You will forever be missed and always be a part of my greatest memories.
Words cannot fill the void that is left without you here. RIP my dearest and truest friend!
Ami B.
Jenny Hall Bellard
October 6, 2018
I've known Amy for many years, since she was a little girl - as we belonged to the same church. Being ten years older in age, I went my way and never saw little Amy grow up. I was fortunate enough that God brought her back into my life 3 years ago, no longer that little girl I remembered, but instead an intelligent, beautiful, caring, loving woman. She quickly became like another sister to me. She made several visits to my home; some for fun & hanging out and some because being that caring person, she helped me prepare for my wedding at home. No matter what the chore was, she tackled it always with a smile, laughing, joking around and to top it off - prepare us a good meal after a long day's work. We were blessed to share our wedding day with Amy. There will never ever be another Amy. I will forever love her and be reminded of her in my home, and my pictures. I cherish the memories we made together; we had fun making them. They say certain people are put in your life for certain reasons, if I had to guess I'd say she taught me how to love unconditionally, help a friend or stranger when you can, believe in the people around you and don't give up, live laugh & love to the fullest and dance in the rain like nobody is watching. I'll always love you, Amy.
Jenny Hall Bellard
Laurie Washington
October 6, 2018
I can't remember not knowing you.
Only that you were always there. You showed me the meaning of loyalty by the friendship that we shared.
I am a leader because you always said, "Go for it! I'll be right behind you!!!"
I am beautiful because you told me so.
I am Me because of You.
I miss you more than words can say.
RIP my beautiful friend. My life is forever changed because you where my friend.
I love you.
Rhonda Gordon
October 5, 2018
I remember having lunch with you a few months ago and catching up with each other.
Every time I pass by Bill's restaurant on Loop 494 I think of you.
I'm just sad we never had that girl's night we talked about.
You will be missed Amy, you were such a lovely soul and stunning woman.
Sandra Bensley
October 5, 2018
RIP Amy, Heaven has another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Liana Choate
October 4, 2018
I have so many fond memories of this lovely lady; from the moment we began working together over ten years ago - I knew I had a good friend for life. Amy made being at work like a constant happy hour - a day full of laughs and hilarious stories of her precious daughter Megan, and the shenanigans of her family and life long friends. We began the habit of "Pei Wei" Mondays - something that I still do with my own daughters now! She was there for me during the darkest time of my life as I went through a nasty divorce; giving me words of encouragement and advice the whole way through. She was my biggest fan and so happy for me when I got remarried to the love of my life. She is also responsible for recommending me for the job that I hold now, which I love so much.
Amy was truly the sweetest, most caring, helpful and friendly individual I have ever met. She had such love for her family and friends, and she was so proud of her daughter. Heaven truly gained an angel in her and she will be sorely missed here on Earth.
Rick Threadgill
October 4, 2018
My most recent memory of Amy was asking for prayer for Emily to find a job. Cindy Mooring was in prayer at early morning prayer, and that evening I received a text from Amy inquiring about the request. I gave her some information - didn't think much more about it, and a few hours later Amy texted me back and informed me she had taken care of it. Emily went to work that following Monday. I am grateful that Amy was in God's plans to help her. Amy was always wonderful to me and my family. In her younger days she would carry Emily around church on her hips (I can see her now) and it brings a smile to me, I have many memories of her. She will be missed but never forgotten. Amy, the Threadgill family is grateful you were in our lives.
Until that day we see His blessed face
Love
The Threadgill family
Jessica McGaugh
October 4, 2018
I have such fond memories of my "pigtail" twin. Often we would be mistaken for each other by our parents while at church and even have our pigtails pulled by them mistakenly thinking that we were each other. I love you my Slumber Party, Music Machine, Childhood friend and look forward to the day that we can meet again in a place where there is no more pain nor tears. Until then may you rest in the arms of God.
Tamara Phallan (Tami O):
As we were in the ICU in the last weeks occasionally Amy asked some of us to do some specific things for her. She asked me, and a few other people, to write something for her. She also knew I wouldn't be able to hold it together enough to actually read it myself at the service. Thank you sweet Amy for knowing me like that.
When I got home last night after witnessing the final precious moments with her in this world, I wanted to fulfill my promise to her and it was clear that a traditional statistical list of dates and places would not be what she would have wanted to describe her. Instead I would share a recipe because she was a fabulous cook and had a rare gift in the kitchen that helped spread love to so many. She often laughed at me and shook her head because I personally have a very limited food range. Despite that, I enjoyed our time in the kitchen and just hanging out with my longtime friend.
So, this became a task of finding the right ingredients to share that would represent her the way I see her. Amy was on the quieter side of feisty with an intensity that could not be mistaken for being timid. She radiated love and was yet somehow still stubborn and willful (in all the best ways). Like with food, she had a knack for pulling people together and helping them mix into unexpected results. Nobody needed to guess if they were one of her people. We each felt it. Amy was so incredibly smart, fiercely independent, and an unequaled problem solver. Those are some of the things she passed on to her daughter Megan.
If you wanted to see Amy's face light up, you only need to ask her about her Sweetie Pie Angel Girl. You would then certainly be entertained with a detailed story about Megan's latest happenings. If something distracted her mid story you could also count on her coming back and picking up exactly where she left off 30 seconds later, 30 minutes later, or 30 days if that is what it took. She was a great story teller.
Amy's world was geographically based mostly within about 50 miles from here, but her travels took her many places. She loved to cruise, cook, eat with her fingers, ride on the motorcycle, go fishing, the touch of a gentle massage, almost any craft project, to have someone brush her hair, and long warm hugs. She liked telling corny jokes, going shopping, and music she could feel down to her soul. She enjoyed being in a crowd but relaxed into a quiet bath beyond measure. She achieved many things but the greatest of these is shown in the people who gather to celebrate her life. Whether you know Amy from being part of her huge loud family (you know who you are), or, like me, you were collected in by some member of that family, maybe you came from her childhood church, her days in school, her time as a flight attendant, a paralegal, a wife, a mother of an amazing daughter, or just because you happened to meet her at Walmart. Each of us were blessed enough to have been in the circle of people touched by our Amy.
Many of you know she enjoyed food and flavors like a good cup of coffee, crunching on ice, a diet coke, roasted salted peanuts, a glass of red wine, spicy food, chili oil, sushi, brown mustard, a good piece of chocolate, a single bite or two of ice cream, homemade bread, and fresh vegetables, especially if they were home grown. All of these things brought her joy.
Amy Cathryn Vaughn cannot be defined by a beginning or an ending, those are just a date on a calendar. She was not limited by a map, or a specific list of ingredients, she was a mixture of so many things that I know to be wonderful. A timeless beauty, a graceful smile, a faithful love, gentle eyes, a nurturing mother, one heck of a sister, a strong woman, an organizer even while being a bit of a hoarder, a volunteer, a survivor, a warrior who rarely raised her voice, she balanced flavors and people in a way that was inspiring. Each time I begin to stir things together I will strive to be as fearless and brave as the example she has set. So, when you receive the inspiration to remember our Amy try her firecracker recipe . Feel free to adjust the ingredients to get a flavor that is just right for you…that is exactly what she would have wanted you to do.
Lars Kristiansson:
It is so hard to come to terms with Amy's passing and I think it will be a long while before it happens. I am so very sorry for your (our) loss of a wonderful woman.
I am very grateful for you allowing me to share her last few days with us and the love expressed by all who were there, will forever stand out, as a reminder of how much she meant to so many people.
Connie asked me to write down my special memories of Amy. It is hard, as there was no special event but rather, she was a comfort to have around – just like your favorite blanket!
English is not my native language and hence I often struggle to use the right words: Beautiful or lovely; Nice or kind; Fun or enjoyable etc. In describing Amy, however, it does not matter because she was ALL of that and so much more!
I have only known Amy for a relatively short time after I married in to your wonderful family. It is not always so easy to "fit in" to such new surroundings and get acquainted with your new family but with Amy it seemed like we had known each other for a lifetime already. So easy to talk and relate to, always interested in your history and boy would she share hers!
Amy stayed with us for a while some years back, when she needed some time to herself and we of course had lots of great moments over shared meals or just sharing stories to late in the evenings. I quickly found out that you would get her full story regardless of possible interruptions – it could be later that evening or even another day, when she would pick up where she left and get the rest off her mind and many times with a good giggle to follow!
She was the life of the party and I will miss her so much going forward.
She left us all far too soon.
Lost of love and my deepest sympathy to all of you,
Lars
Amy was a Christian who loved life and all people, no matter their station in life. She was kind and considerate to all. She excelled in all she did; an honor student in High School and a member of Who's Who Among High School Students her Sophomore, Junior and Senior years. She began her professional life as a legal secretary and though she would later become a flight attendant, graduating Valedictorian of her class, she would find motherhood more important than travel. She returned to legal support as a para-legal and as a health, safety and environmental compliance professional. She was respected and loved by all who worked with her. She was a fiercely loyal friend and many would tell you she was their best friend. Throughout her life she maintained relationships with co-workers and friends from everywhere she worked, went to school and church. Amy was an exceptional wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter and sister. She put everyone's needs ahead of her own and without complaint. It was not unusual for Amy to stand in Wal-Mart for an hour listening to the cares and woes of complete strangers. Their loneliness and grief would break her heart and she would do what she could to ease their pain. Somehow, those in need would always find her and share their lives with her.
She is survived by her parents, Kelly and Connie Byrd and Rod Wells; her daughter, Megan; her grandmother, Marian Marshall; brother and sister-in-law, Geoff and Amy Wells; sisters, Katrina Byrd, Kimberly Wells and Sandra Stone. She is also survived by uncles and aunts, Bert and Sandra Marshall; Gordon and Cynthia Marshall; Terry and Angela Marshall; Bruce and Linda Marshall; Tim and Erin Nugent and Debbie Marshall; her ex-husband, Robert Vaughn; her long-time companion, Lonny Hall; nephews, Andrew, Brett, Clint and Harley; and nieces, LaNae, Kagen, and Kara; her cousins and many, many friends.
According to Amy's direction, her memorial service will be officiated by Pastor Jack Mooring and will be held at Celebration of Life Church in Baytown, Texas; 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2018. Speakers will include Pastor Todd Mooring, Jim and Terri Baker, Ray Highfield (represented by son, Scott), Bert Lohse, Tamera Phallan, Katrina Byrd, Laurie Washington and Megan Vaughn. Songs Amy selected will be sung by Holtz and Mooring cousins, Jack, Leland, Shelly and Lauren with sign language by Rick Threadgill.
Honorary pallbearers are long time close friends with as much as 43 years of history with Amy: Laurie Baker Washington, Tamera Ortman "Tami O" Phallan, Marsha Edwards Pasley, Ami Dobbins Blue, Angela Nowling Highfield, Cindy Stroud Reddick, Liana Choate, and Tobi Walls. Ushers are cousins, Ryan and Clayton Marshall.
Rejoice for our beloved Amy, our forever Valentine; we can look forward to that reunion in Heaven. We can hardly wait to hear her stories and see her wonderful smile. We are grateful to God to have been trusted with this precious spirit for her time in mortal life.
Ami Blue (Dobbins)
October 8, 2018
Life has never been lived without you. Laughing at me, or laughing with you, there was always a lighter side to things. Teaching me to cook, and making it different every time was part of "happy moments!"
Building confidence in friendship and teaching me unconditional love and acceptance. I don't know a greater place of Safety other than in the arms of Jesus.
You've taught me many things about being accepting of myself and others, and loving life to the fullest. That's what I intend to continue doing, in memory of you. You will forever be missed and always be a part of my greatest memories.
Words cannot fill the void that is left without you here. RIP my dearest and truest friend!
Ami B.
Jenny Hall Bellard
October 6, 2018
I've known Amy for many years, since she was a little girl - as we belonged to the same church. Being ten years older in age, I went my way and never saw little Amy grow up. I was fortunate enough that God brought her back into my life 3 years ago, no longer that little girl I remembered, but instead an intelligent, beautiful, caring, loving woman. She quickly became like another sister to me. She made several visits to my home; some for fun & hanging out and some because being that caring person, she helped me prepare for my wedding at home. No matter what the chore was, she tackled it always with a smile, laughing, joking around and to top it off - prepare us a good meal after a long day's work. We were blessed to share our wedding day with Amy. There will never ever be another Amy. I will forever love her and be reminded of her in my home, and my pictures. I cherish the memories we made together; we had fun making them. They say certain people are put in your life for certain reasons, if I had to guess I'd say she taught me how to love unconditionally, help a friend or stranger when you can, believe in the people around you and don't give up, live laugh & love to the fullest and dance in the rain like nobody is watching. I'll always love you, Amy.
Jenny Hall Bellard
Laurie Washington
October 6, 2018
I can't remember not knowing you.
Only that you were always there. You showed me the meaning of loyalty by the friendship that we shared.
I am a leader because you always said, "Go for it! I'll be right behind you!!!"
I am beautiful because you told me so.
I am Me because of You.
I miss you more than words can say.
RIP my beautiful friend. My life is forever changed because you where my friend.
I love you.
Rhonda Gordon
October 5, 2018
I remember having lunch with you a few months ago and catching up with each other.
Every time I pass by Bill's restaurant on Loop 494 I think of you.
I'm just sad we never had that girl's night we talked about.
You will be missed Amy, you were such a lovely soul and stunning woman.
Sandra Bensley
October 5, 2018
RIP Amy, Heaven has another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Liana Choate
October 4, 2018
I have so many fond memories of this lovely lady; from the moment we began working together over ten years ago - I knew I had a good friend for life. Amy made being at work like a constant happy hour - a day full of laughs and hilarious stories of her precious daughter Megan, and the shenanigans of her family and life long friends. We began the habit of "Pei Wei" Mondays - something that I still do with my own daughters now! She was there for me during the darkest time of my life as I went through a nasty divorce; giving me words of encouragement and advice the whole way through. She was my biggest fan and so happy for me when I got remarried to the love of my life. She is also responsible for recommending me for the job that I hold now, which I love so much.
Amy was truly the sweetest, most caring, helpful and friendly individual I have ever met. She had such love for her family and friends, and she was so proud of her daughter. Heaven truly gained an angel in her and she will be sorely missed here on Earth.
Rick Threadgill
October 4, 2018
My most recent memory of Amy was asking for prayer for Emily to find a job. Cindy Mooring was in prayer at early morning prayer, and that evening I received a text from Amy inquiring about the request. I gave her some information - didn't think much more about it, and a few hours later Amy texted me back and informed me she had taken care of it. Emily went to work that following Monday. I am grateful that Amy was in God's plans to help her. Amy was always wonderful to me and my family. In her younger days she would carry Emily around church on her hips (I can see her now) and it brings a smile to me, I have many memories of her. She will be missed but never forgotten. Amy, the Threadgill family is grateful you were in our lives.
Until that day we see His blessed face
Love
The Threadgill family
Jessica McGaugh
October 4, 2018
I have such fond memories of my "pigtail" twin. Often we would be mistaken for each other by our parents while at church and even have our pigtails pulled by them mistakenly thinking that we were each other. I love you my Slumber Party, Music Machine, Childhood friend and look forward to the day that we can meet again in a place where there is no more pain nor tears. Until then may you rest in the arms of God.
Tamara Phallan (Tami O):
As we were in the ICU in the last weeks occasionally Amy asked some of us to do some specific things for her. She asked me, and a few other people, to write something for her. She also knew I wouldn't be able to hold it together enough to actually read it myself at the service. Thank you sweet Amy for knowing me like that.
When I got home last night after witnessing the final precious moments with her in this world, I wanted to fulfill my promise to her and it was clear that a traditional statistical list of dates and places would not be what she would have wanted to describe her. Instead I would share a recipe because she was a fabulous cook and had a rare gift in the kitchen that helped spread love to so many. She often laughed at me and shook her head because I personally have a very limited food range. Despite that, I enjoyed our time in the kitchen and just hanging out with my longtime friend.
So, this became a task of finding the right ingredients to share that would represent her the way I see her. Amy was on the quieter side of feisty with an intensity that could not be mistaken for being timid. She radiated love and was yet somehow still stubborn and willful (in all the best ways). Like with food, she had a knack for pulling people together and helping them mix into unexpected results. Nobody needed to guess if they were one of her people. We each felt it. Amy was so incredibly smart, fiercely independent, and an unequaled problem solver. Those are some of the things she passed on to her daughter Megan.
If you wanted to see Amy's face light up, you only need to ask her about her Sweetie Pie Angel Girl. You would then certainly be entertained with a detailed story about Megan's latest happenings. If something distracted her mid story you could also count on her coming back and picking up exactly where she left off 30 seconds later, 30 minutes later, or 30 days if that is what it took. She was a great story teller.
Amy's world was geographically based mostly within about 50 miles from here, but her travels took her many places. She loved to cruise, cook, eat with her fingers, ride on the motorcycle, go fishing, the touch of a gentle massage, almost any craft project, to have someone brush her hair, and long warm hugs. She liked telling corny jokes, going shopping, and music she could feel down to her soul. She enjoyed being in a crowd but relaxed into a quiet bath beyond measure. She achieved many things but the greatest of these is shown in the people who gather to celebrate her life. Whether you know Amy from being part of her huge loud family (you know who you are), or, like me, you were collected in by some member of that family, maybe you came from her childhood church, her days in school, her time as a flight attendant, a paralegal, a wife, a mother of an amazing daughter, or just because you happened to meet her at Walmart. Each of us were blessed enough to have been in the circle of people touched by our Amy.
Many of you know she enjoyed food and flavors like a good cup of coffee, crunching on ice, a diet coke, roasted salted peanuts, a glass of red wine, spicy food, chili oil, sushi, brown mustard, a good piece of chocolate, a single bite or two of ice cream, homemade bread, and fresh vegetables, especially if they were home grown. All of these things brought her joy.
Amy Cathryn Vaughn cannot be defined by a beginning or an ending, those are just a date on a calendar. She was not limited by a map, or a specific list of ingredients, she was a mixture of so many things that I know to be wonderful. A timeless beauty, a graceful smile, a faithful love, gentle eyes, a nurturing mother, one heck of a sister, a strong woman, an organizer even while being a bit of a hoarder, a volunteer, a survivor, a warrior who rarely raised her voice, she balanced flavors and people in a way that was inspiring. Each time I begin to stir things together I will strive to be as fearless and brave as the example she has set. So, when you receive the inspiration to remember our Amy try her firecracker recipe . Feel free to adjust the ingredients to get a flavor that is just right for you…that is exactly what she would have wanted you to do.
Lars Kristiansson:
It is so hard to come to terms with Amy's passing and I think it will be a long while before it happens. I am so very sorry for your (our) loss of a wonderful woman.
I am very grateful for you allowing me to share her last few days with us and the love expressed by all who were there, will forever stand out, as a reminder of how much she meant to so many people.
Connie asked me to write down my special memories of Amy. It is hard, as there was no special event but rather, she was a comfort to have around – just like your favorite blanket!
English is not my native language and hence I often struggle to use the right words: Beautiful or lovely; Nice or kind; Fun or enjoyable etc. In describing Amy, however, it does not matter because she was ALL of that and so much more!
I have only known Amy for a relatively short time after I married in to your wonderful family. It is not always so easy to "fit in" to such new surroundings and get acquainted with your new family but with Amy it seemed like we had known each other for a lifetime already. So easy to talk and relate to, always interested in your history and boy would she share hers!
Amy stayed with us for a while some years back, when she needed some time to herself and we of course had lots of great moments over shared meals or just sharing stories to late in the evenings. I quickly found out that you would get her full story regardless of possible interruptions – it could be later that evening or even another day, when she would pick up where she left and get the rest off her mind and many times with a good giggle to follow!
She was the life of the party and I will miss her so much going forward.
She left us all far too soon.
Lost of love and my deepest sympathy to all of you,
Lars
Gravesite Details
Ashes given to family.
