Toney Nathaniel Vaughan, Sr.

The world is a little quieter now, the roads a bit emptier, and the heavens have gained an angel with the passing of Toney Nathaniel Vaughan SR, affectionately known as "Batmite," on the eve of March 27, 2024, at Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia. At 57 years young, Toney bid farewell to a life richly lived and deeply cherished. Born on a summer day in Portsmouth, Virginia, Toney's light first dawned on August 25, 1966. He was the treasured son of Thomas Vaughan Jr. and Beatrice (Williams) Vaughan, whose legacies preceded him. Toney's life journey took him through the halls of I.C. Norcom High School, onto the fields of the National Guard, and into the classrooms of Regent University, where he was pursuing his passion for theology and cyber security. As a sophomore at Regent University, his steadfast diligence earned him a 3.28gpa. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the founder of Vaughan Transportation INC. and Connected Economy LLC. His work ethic was unparalleled in his various roles at Piccadilly’s, Dave’s Cabinets, Empire, Kenan, and JB Hunt, where he was recognized both for his safe driving earning over 309,000 safe miles placing him in the top 5 safest driver fleet. Toney's love for life was mirrored in his many accomplishments and pastimes. He was a Southeastern District wrestling champion, a licensed minister at Glorious Light Outreach Center and United Full Gospel Revival Center, a proud and extremely loyal Dallas Cowboys fan. He was also a man of music, whether behind the DJ booth as Pretty Toney or with a saxophone in hand. His love for fishing, motorcycles, and a good game of spades were well known among his friends and family. His commitment to faith was unwavering, and Toney dedicated countless hours to community service and volunteering efforts through the involvement with many religious organizations. He organized many church fundraisers, youth events as youth pastor, and after school team bible studies with Oscar F Smith Track team. He was a pillar in the religious community, uplifting those around him with his tireless spirit and his zeal for outreach. To his beloved wife Shelley, his children Toney, Jr. (Jessica), Rashad (Danica), Kyana (Jawaun, Sr.), Shanikqua, and Jasmine, and his adoring 16 grandchildren, Toney (PoppaDoc…PaPa) was a source of immeasurable love and guidance. His siblings Gloria (Ashley), Kimberly (Kiesha), and Michael, along with family friends Solomon “Sonny” Ashby and Darnell “Brooks” Wall, will forever remember Toney's warmth and wisdom. His favorite inquiries, “What’s for dinner?” and the gentle reminder “It’s your world,” will resonate with laughter and love in the hearts of all who knew him. May we carry Toney's legacy forward in each act of kindness, each moment of strength, and every pursuit of our dreams. In his memory, we find the courage to face our tomorrows and the assurance that, in the fountain of life, we shall see light. Rest in peace, Toney Nathaniel Vaughan SR "Batmite". You have left the world richer for your presence and are deeply missed.

Toney Nathaniel Vaughan, Sr.

August 25, 1966 - March 27, 2024