August 6, 1937 – May 28, 2024
Maureen K. Vaught, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024, in Ely, Nevada. Born on August 6, 1937, in Ely Nevada at the Richmar Apartments to David Leroy Archer and Omega Johnson Archer. Maureen lived a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Eugene Vaught, her daughter, Debra Thompson Lerch, her parents, David and Omega Archer, her sister Annice Jo Read, brother George Sidney Archer, grandson Logan Vaught, and uncle Skee Johnson. Maureen is survived by her loving children, Christine (Bret) Hermansen and Brandon (Desiree) Vaught, her grandchildren, Michael (Clarissa) Hermansen, Matthew Brady (Brooke) Hermansen, Meagan Hermansen, Eric Vaught, Jaclynn Vaught Cooper, and her great-grandchildren, Landon, Parker, Kayden, and Adalyn. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Sandra Archer, cousin Rocky Johnson, nieces Michelle Ritchie and Cheryl Read, and nephew Kevin Read.
Maureen attended Utah State University for a semester on a musical scholarship before moving to Sacramento, California. Maureen moved back to Ely in 1971 where she married Eugene in 1972. She worked alongside her husband and children, first at the Nanette Shops, then at the Flower Basket & Espresso Depot, a venture they proudly owned and operated together. Her passion for her work was evident in every flower arrangement and cup of coffee.
Known for her feisty spirit and stubborn determination, Maureen was quick to laugh and loved to flirt. She made friends wherever she went and had a wonderful ability to turn friends into family. She delighted in hosting family holidays and milestone parties at her home. Her great-grandchildren affectionately called her “GiGi,” a role she embraced with love and enthusiasm, enjoying Fridays spent with the little ones.
Maureen enjoyed traveling with her sisters, family, and her many friends, savoring new experiences and creating lasting memories. She enjoyed many hobbies including golfing, swimming, fishing, boating and snorkeling. Maureen was the life of the party! She was a connoisseur of dark chocolate, dry red wines, Irish coffees, and a good Stella Artois, which she often enjoyed in the company of her loved ones.
A proud patriot, Maureen adored American flags and the color red. She was a member of the American Business Women’s Association, The Ladies Golf Association, Ely DOES drove #26 (held several leadership positions including president), and the Order of the Eastern Star as Secretary and Treasurer for the Satellites. In later years, she was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW James Jewell Post #3547 where she was also a president for 14 years. Maureen was committed to her community and her country.
In honor of her remarkable life, a celebration of life will be held in August 2024. The family would love to hear from those who have stories to share about Maureen and how she may have had an impact on their lives. Maureen’s legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will forever be cherished by those who knew her.
Maureen was a big part of my life growing up in Ely. Always wonderful and gracious to my family. She was an amazing person and I will miss her so very much. Lots of love to Bret and Cricket, Mikey, Brady, and Meagan. You are in my heart and always in my thoughts. Lots of love Bill, Shawna, Tanner, Carleigh, and Jacob