William Vaughn

William Thomas Vaughn was born on March 25, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, to his mother, Jeanette Vaughn. He was her only child. William’s earliest childhood memories were of living in Elyria, Ohio.

William earned his GED from Max S. Hayes High School and went on to build a life centered around family, creativity, and caring for others. He was married to Winniefray Cage. Together they shared three children: Ossie, Shawn, and Louise. William and Winniefray later separated.

William proudly spent time serving in the United States Army. He had a deeply creative spirit and found joy in arts and crafts. He designed board games, built detailed models of spaceships and Star Trek characters, crafted canes, and made shields—each piece reflecting his imagination and skill. He cherished simple joys, including riding his bike in earlier years and, more recently, spending time on his scooter. He found happiness in taking children Christmas caroling in years past. He was an ardent commentator on politics. Caring for children was one of William's greatest passions. Alongside his former longtime girlfriend, Sharon Dixon, he helped raise several families of children, offering guidance, structure, and compassion. He later continued this work in daycare centers, where he dedicated years to nurturing and supporting young lives.

William departed this life and entered eternal peace on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lousie; mother, Jeanette; one grandson, Ledon; and one granddaughter, Ossie.

William leaves to cherish his memory his children, Ossie Dornoo, and Shawn Cage; his chosen daughters, Danielle Johnson, and Marissa Pollard; and his chosen brother/son, Trevor Harris; as well as seven grandchildren, six chosen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

William's legacy of creativity, kindness, and care for others will live on through all who knew and loved him.

Lovingly Submitted,The Family