Donald Vaughan, 78 of Shelby, NC, passed away Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Atrium Health Cleveland.
A native of Cleveland County, Don served in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was a member of Central United Methodist Church and he loved spending time with his family and friends.

Donald was a devoted scholar whose passion for learning took him to Brevard College, Western Carolina, the University of Florida, the University of Texas, and the University of California. His professional journey led him to NASA, where he worked as a metallurgist and played a pivotal role in examining the first moon rocks brought back to Earth.

He was preceded in death by his wife Gaynell Vaughan; Parents, Junious Maynard "J.M." Vaughan, Jr. and Oveda Panther Vaughan.
He is survived by brothers, Jerry Vaughan and wife, Terry, of Kings Mountain, Terry Vaughan and wife, Gail, of Davie, Florida; grandson, Brian Gipson and wife, Maria, of Shelby; great grandchildren, Julian Gipson, Amber Gipson Ross, Cristal Perez, Rafael Miranda Perez and Madison Stiles.

A graveside service will be held 11:00 AM Friday, September 20, 2024 at Sunset Cemetery with Pastor Tom Hartis officiating. The family will receive friends following the service and other times at the home of Jerry and Terry Vaughan, 107 Bottom Road Kings Mountain.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com
Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is compassionately serving the family.