Vaughn Harland Lyons, 78, of Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away on April 7, 2026 at AdventHealth Hospital in Tampa. Vaughn was born on October 9, 1947 in Eastport, Maine to his parents Harland and Lila Lyons. He grew up in Perry, Maine with his 3 sisters, Sheila Spaulding, Joyce Rider and Judy Soucy. Vaughn was an accomplished student, graduating from Portsmouth High School with honors. Upon graduation, Vaughn joined the US Air Force. He served for twenty-one years in various locations including Wakkanai Air Station in Japan, Eglin AFB in Florida, Castle AFB in California, Yokota AFB in Japan, and Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota, reaching the rank of Master Sergeant.

Vaughn began his military career studying Russian and Chinese while serving at a radar outpost in northern Japan during the Cold War. His academic talents led him to become a trainer, developing curriculum and teaching classes. He continued his studies and earned a Master of Science degree in Education while serving in the military. After retiring from the Air Force in 1986, he entered the health insurance industry, eventually becoming a trainer there as well.

While stationed in Japan, Vaughn met his wife Yumi and married her on November 24, 1972 in Tokyo. He was a family man who enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed being active and was a member of the Yokota Striders Running Club, participating in local races including an annual race to the top of Mount Fuji. Cycling was also a hobby. He liked exploring trails in the Tampa Bay area with a group of friends.

Vaughn was predeceased by his wife, Yumi Lyons, and by his sister, Sheila Spaulding. He is survived by his children, Barbra Biagiotti (James) and Steven Lyons (Bonnie); four grandchildren, Jadon, Oliver, Andrew, and Pearl; and two sisters, Joyce Rider (Gary) and Judy Soucy (Fred). Vaughn will be honored at a memorial service at 10:00 AM on May 14 at Hodges Family Funeral Home, located at 36327 CR 54 in Zephyrhills, Florida. The ashes of Vaughn and Yumi will be interred at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.