OZARK…Mr. James “Bud” Vaught, a resident of Ozark, near Skipperville, died Wednesday afternoon, March 18, 2026, in Dale Medical Center. He was 90.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Edward Douglas officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Vaught, son of the late James Leroy Vaught and Mendie Goodwin Vaught Goodwin, was born on March 11, 1936. He grew up with the kind of steady, humble strength that stayed with him throughout his life. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his work ethic, his discipline, and his deep appreciation for the simple things in life.
After his military service, he spent many years on the road as a truck driver, working with several moving companies including Allied Van Lines, Bekin, Coleman, and J & L Moving Company. He took pride in doing his job well, and he was known for being dependable, hardworking, and willing to go the extra mile—literally and figuratively. The miles he traveled and the people he met along the way became part of the story he carried with him.
Away from work, he found peace outdoors. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes, not just for the catch but for the quiet moments it offered. He had a soft spot for all animals, and nothing made him happier than sitting outside feeding the birds, watching them gather around him as if they knew they were safe in his presence. He had a gentle way about him that animals seemed to understand.
He shared forty‑five years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joan Waters Vaught, and her passing left a space in his life that could never be filled. Their years together were marked by loyalty, companionship, and the kind of everyday love that grows deeper with time. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Clifford “Sonny” Vaught and three sisters, Agnes “Sis” Vaught, Margaret Vaught, and Joyce Vaught.
Those who knew him will remember a man who appreciated the simple joys—fresh air, good company, the sound of birds, and the comfort of familiar routines. He lived quietly, loved deeply, and cared for the world around him in his own steady way.
Surviving relatives include his daughter, Elizabeth Dobbs, Ozark; sisters, Glenda Comeaux (Michael), Louisiana, Rhonda Vaught, California and Donna Vaught, Hawaii; brothers, Jim Vaught, Jake Waldrop, Birmingham, Dennis Vaught (Kathy), Florida and Phillip Vaught, California; five grandchildren, Mendie Dobbs, Lucas Dobbs, Tristrine Dobbs, Ashley Dobbs, and Keri Risden; five great-grandchildren, JaKolby Maddox, Joanie Lynn Deese, ; JaKamren Risden, JaKorbyn Risden, and JaKabriel Terry, and two on the way; nieces, nephews, and cousins.,
You may sign a guest register at www.fuquabankston.com
