05/16/2026
We are so saddened by the news of our friend and original “Poppy” leaving us this week. His love and support will be felt in all of us forever. Rest well my friend
John Ray Vaughan, 77, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, passed away surrounded by his loving family on May 13, 2026. Born June 16, 1948, in Tacoma, Washington, to William E. and Leona Vaughan, John Ray lived a truly one-of-a-kind life defined by integrity, generosity, and a spirit that brought joy to everyone he encountered. There will never be another like him.
John Ray graduated from St. Martin High School and received his bachelor's degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Early in his career, he taught history at Ocean Springs Junior High, where he was well liked and remembered by his students. His true calling led him to entrepreneurship, where he built a thriving legacy as a businessman. He owned and operated Lloyd's Motor Parts in downtown Ocean Springs for over 30 years, as well as other auto parts stores in Vancleave and Ocean Springs, and Poppy's on Porter, a gift shop named after the nickname his grandchildren lovingly called him. John Ray earned the respect and loyalty of countless customers and friends through his integrity and work ethic. He also drove a school bus route later in life. Throughout his career, he was a profound influence and mentor to countless people whose lives he touched.
John Ray enjoyed fishing, gardening, and vacationing with his family. He was affectionately known throughout Ocean Springs as "the tomato man," and looked so forward to sharing them with his friends every year. He loved working in his yard, hosting fish fries, and enjoying time at ballgames, especially cheering on his grandchildren.
Above all, John Ray deeply loved his wife and family. He married his sweetheart, Ellen Freeman, on June 14, 1969, and their partnership spanned 56 beautiful years. He was immensely proud of his daughters, Tricia Capers and Melanie Gant, and their husbands, Lavon and Nick. His love for his grandchildren, David, Kyle, and Jenna, was profound and unwavering. John Ray treasured every moment spent with them, whether at the ballpark, or simply being present in their lives. He was their biggest cheerleader, beaming with pride at their accomplishments and never missing an opportunity to support them.
John Ray was a character! Known for his practical jokes and warm spirit, he was a fixture in countless lives. He loved to laugh and had a gift for making everyone around him laugh and feel happy. His Tuesday night gatherings with close friends became legendary for their camaraderie and charitable giving. He had more friends than anyone could count, and he had a gift for making everyone feel valued and seen. He was loved and will be missed more than words can express.
John Ray is preceded in death by his parents, William E. and Leona Vaughan; his brother, William E. Vaughan, Jr.; and his sister, Rebecca Edwards.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Ellen Freeman Vaughan; his daughters, Tricia (Lavon) Capers and Melanie (Nick) Gant; his grandchildren, David, Kyle, and Jenna; his brother-in-law, Larry Edwards; and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and generosity.
A private family graveside burial will be held on Saturday, May 16. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date where his many friends can gather to remember and celebrate his remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support his favorite local charities. Venmo -Capers.
John Ray Vaughan: a truly one-of-a-kind man whose legacy will endure forever.
Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Ray Vaughan.
