James Taylor Vaughan II, 77, passed away November 3, 2022 in Irvine, CA.

James was born in Atlanta, Georgia to parents Peggy and Jimmy, but spent most of his younger years in Gulfport, Florida. After graduating from Boca Ciega High School he went on to receive two Engineering degrees from Georgia Tech. He was a champion fencer, specializing in epee and foil. At one time he was the champion of the state of Georgia.

He married Marcia Peach in 1968 before moving to California, where his son was born. He had a very successful career in aerospace, working for McDonnel Douglas and Northrop, contributing to projects like the B2, A10, and F20 aircraft as well as solar and transit projects. James loved to tell stories about the things he got to destroy and rebuild. Grandson Phoenix once commented, “Papa, I would be so good at that job. I already know how to break things.” And once grand-daughter Pearl designed an exercise program for him, saying, “Chop, chop Papa. We haven’t got a minute to lose.”

James was a devoted husband and gardener, meticulously pruning roses and caring for his wife's favorite daylilies. The yard was his oasis, and his friends all got to benefit from its beauty during their frequent cookouts and parties.

He is survived by his wife, brothers John and Julian, sister-in-law Minnie and son, Taylor.

His two grandchildren called him "Papa" and he loved spending time with them. During their younger years he was the first person to sit on the floor and listen as they told stories or built castles. His computer, house and personal mirror are surrounded by pictures of Pearl and Phoenix.

James always enjoyed a good laugh and a good glass of wine. He was an active member of the local wine society. In addition to family, he is survived by hundreds of bottles, all rigorously catalogued and rated. He could find any bottle in the house without a pause. The wine was often accompanied by books. Lots of books. He had lists of his favorite books and authors, a personal rating system, as well as a massive "to be read" list. He had very eclectic tastes, and also loved crossword puzzles He was very detail-oriented, very intelligent and kept lists of everything of importance to him. Other things, not so much.

In addition James was an excellent tennis player with a propensity to serve thunderous aces. His golf game he admitted was not so good, but he loves playing weekly with his golfing buddies. Actually, no one claims a very good golf game. He was a darn good bridge player, which allowed him to play a hand really well. And he loved sailing. He took some great trips with Marcia. One of his favorite trips was sailing the Tahitian islands in a catamaran with three other couples. He was a great skipper. However, one of his favorite trips was taking Taylor and his grandkids, plus mom Hannah on a Disney cruise.

James enjoyed a great life, although cut too short. He had many devoted friends, as well as a loving family who will miss him very much.

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