Elizabeth “Ann” Vaughn, 88 of Springfield, formerly of Sherman passed away at 3:10 am, Saturday, January 31, 2026. She was born December 24, 1937, in Decatur, the daughter of Robert and Helen (Hunter) Swiney. She married Dan Vaughn April 27, 1957, and he preceded her in death February 25, 2017.
She is survived by three daughters, Kimberly (Mark) Woolard and Vicki (Bill) Peterman, both of Sherman and Julie (Brad) Zara of Marco Island, FL; seven grandchildren, J.D. (Anne) Woolard, Abbie (Mike) Joyner, Hilary (Nathan) Boyle, Paige (Kale) Gentry, Hannah (Tyler) McKelvey, Emily (Andrew) McCurdy and Claire Zara; eleven great grandchildren, Ellie, Parker and Matilda Woolard, Wren and Goldie Joyner, Nora and Bennett Boyle, Hattie Gentry and one great grandson on the way, Caroline McKelvey and Rosie and James McCurdy; one sister. Kay (Jim) Gibson of Shelbyville; one brother, Robert “Bud” (Margaret) Swiney of Florida; several nieces and nephews and her canine companion, Luella.
She was also preceded in death by her father, Robert Swiney, mother, Helen Durst, stepfather, Bill Durst and three dogs, Eddie, Tyke and Lola.
She attended Sherman United Methodist Church and West Side Christian Church.
Ann retired from the State of Illinois Department of Natural Resources after many years of service. She loved growing flowers, cooking and reading. She especially loved travelling with her husband to many destinations worldwide.
Private services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois St. Bernard Rescue or the American Cancer Society.
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