Service Details
A private graveside service for the immediate family will be held in Racine. A memorial luncheon will be held in 2026 for her family, friends, and other loved ones.
Willie Pearl Vaughn, age 95, passed away at Ridgewood Care Center on October 21, 2025.
She was born in St. Louis, MO to William and Annie (nee: Copening) Buckley. She was raised by her maternal grandparents in Colp, IL after the deaths of her parents. She attended Attucks Grade School and Herrin High School in Herrin, IL. She then married Thomas Vaughn on August 8, 1947 in Marion, IL. They raised their children in Racine, WI. Willie Pearl retired from Lincoln Lutheran Home after 35 years. She was the SEIU Representative for the workers; then became a SEIU Regional Representative. She attended and participated in numerous classes, workshops, and conferences regarding workers’ rights. She worked in various employment positions in her work life. She was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church and former treasurer of the Mack C. Davis Scholarship Club. She loved her church family.
Willie Pearl is survived by her daughter, Deborah (John) Herrem; grandchildren, Michelle (Vince) Borleske, Scott (Elizabeth) Herrem, Christopher (Michelle) Herrem, Toni Peet, and Katie Converse; 15 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; several godchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Vaughn; sons, Michael and Kevin Vaughn; stepson, Andrew Vaughn; brother, Marvin Buckley; sister, Ruby Lee; parents, William and Annie; grandparents, Jacob and Nina (nee: Clark) Copening; and great-granddaughter, Katrina Jade Hanson-Herrem.
Angela Boutwell says
Heaven has gained an Angel! Willie was special to me, and you have my sincere condolences, Deborah. I was in the same group with Willie “Mack C. Davis Scholarship Club and she took me under her wing. She will forever be special to me. Can you give me a call when you retrieve this message at 2626764710? May God comfort you & your family.
Demetrius Powell says
So for your loss my God bless and keep you during this difficult time in your life May she RiP
Audrey Stephens says
Our families lived down the street from each other on Prospect St. Willie was always so nice to all of us. We will continue to keep your family in our prayers.
Josephine Shannon says
To the Vaughn family Willie n I go way back we met at Lincoln Lutheran home my condolences to the family
Gracie Witherspoon says
Most sincerely and heartfelt condolences to my childhood friend Deborah and other survivors of Mrs. Willie Vaughn. May God be with you in your time of grief.
Pat McMillian & family says
Deepest condolences to the family! Ms Vaughn was one of the most sweetest, kind person you would ever want to meet!!! We go a long way back. Will never forget her. 💕💕 Rest in heavenly peace Ms Vaughn💕
GM says
RIP
Yvonne Mckinley Curtis says
Willie Pearl had a great laugh, and I loved the ones we shared. Goodbye to a long-time family friend.
Vallie Rogers says
My deepest condolences to the family. Mrs Vaughn was a loving and pleasant lady. She was one of the founding members of the Mack C Davis Community Club. She was an active member until she was no longer able to perform her duties as treasurer of the club, a position she held from its infancy. She has and will been a vital part of the club.
Joanne Tucker-Powell says
My condolences and prayers 🙏 to Mrs Vaughn family and all those who love her 🙏 RIP ❤️
MARY PEET says
My condolences