Alfred Bryan Vaught was born December 9, 1922 in Valdosta, GA,
to Edward Armlain and Juanita Birt Vaught. He attended First Methodist
Church of Valdosta as a young boy and was baptized there.
At the age of nine, Melrose, Florida became his home following the
death of his father. His grandfather, Thomas Alfred Birt, a boat builder,
taught him about boats, fishing, hunting and his beloved Lake Santa Fe. In the Melrose Church
where his family attended he grew to love the dignity, liturgy and respect for God's Word and
God's people.
As a young man in Melrose High School he felt the calling towards Christian ministry. In
order to attend college, his first salaried job was at Camp Blanding as a payroll and general clerk,
interviewing and processing personnel tor the construction work of building Camp Blanding.
From there he enlisted in the Army during World War II (1943-1946). He proudly served his
country in the Rhineland, Central Europe and the Aleutian Islands, being stationed at Cold Bay,
Alaska.
After the war he enrolled in Florida Southern College where he received his Bachelor's
Degree, then enrolled In the Candler School of Theology and Emory University in Atlanta and
received his Master of Divinity Degree. Later he was honored with a Doctor of Divinity Degree
from Florida Southern College.
As his first appointment he was assigned to organize the Methodist Church in Ormond Beach,
FL, in 1952. While pastor there he married Donna Jean James, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Glenn
James on December 28, 1956. Daughters Kathy, born April 30, 1958 and Juanita, April 12, 1960
were of this marriage. Jean faithfully served by his side until her death December 5, 1993.
Churches served were Trinity Church in Deland, First Church in Seminole, First Church in
Gainesville, District Superintendent of the Tallahassee District, First Church in Lake Wales and
Melrose Church. He retired in 1985 but continued to serve as Retired Supply at Trenton Church,
First Church in Cross City, First Church in Lake Butler and Providence Church at Windsor.
He found love again and married Mary Bishop Bowen of Greenville, SC and Orange Park,
FL, June 25, 1995, in Glenn James Chapel at Trinity Church in Tallahassee, officiated by long
time friend, Dr. David G. Horton.
Al continued to minister with weddings, baptisms, confirmations and supply pulpit. There
were almost three happy years with his wife and combined family before his death, March 26,
1998.
He will be remembered for his appreciation of his heritage, involvement in the Melrose Historical Society, Eliam Cemetary Association, Jove of trains and poetry, devotion to his beloved
family, friends and his great Jove of the church and it's mission.
Reflecting on his ministry, he was a wonderful pastor caring for those in need. We all have
treasured memories of this humble, compassionate, generous man who gave all of himself freely
to everyone.
AI ended each day with the wonderful words of the Doxology, "Praise God, from whom all
blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly hosts; praise
Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen."
Submitted by: Mary B. Vaught, devoted wife and Kathryn Louise Brett, Juanita Jane Morgan, loving daughters