Sandra Diane Vaughn, 68, of Cape Girardeau passed away Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023, in her home after a courageous, seven-year battle with cancer.

She was born Oct. 22, 1955, in Cape Girardeau to Floyd Almond and Anna Mae Smith.

She was a 1973 graduate of University High School in Cape Girardeau. She and Jon Robert Vaughn were married September 23, 2000.

Sandy dedicated most of her life to the Girl Scout organization. She served in many different capacities, including Girl Scout leader, horse program coordinator, camp director and director of properties and risk management. Over the years, she mentored thousands of young Girl Scouts and staff. She also served as health and safety director for the American Red Cross, where she taught first aid and CPR classes. Sandy loved to swim and spent countless hours training lifeguards and teaching young kids to swim as well.

Sandy loved to be outdoors. She loved to camp with her friends, ride her horses and take long walks with her dogs.

Sandy's biggest love in life was her grandchildren. She adored "her boys" and loved to spend time with them picking blackberries, camping, canoeing, riding horses and playing at the creek.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Jon Robert "Bob" Vaughn of Patton, Missouri; two brothers, Mike (Mary) Smith of Gordonville and Tim (Karen) Smith of Fletcher, Missouri. She was the proud mom of two daughters, Jaime (Skip) Stroder of Cape Girardeau and Stacie (Stephen) Dotson of Jackson; and proud grandma of four grandchildren, Cody (Lizz) Schremp of Uniontown, Missouri, Tyler Stroder of Auburn, Washington, and Grant and Evan Dotson of Jackson. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Anna Smith.

Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

Funeral will follow immediately at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to American Cancer Society.

People, especially kids, were drawn to Sandy and she was loved by all who met her. Her impact was immeasurable. Even though she is no longer with us, her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched. Her light will continue to shine bright.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.