Herbert Vaughn Larson

Herbert Vaughn Larson, known to all who loved him simply as Vaughn, passed away on September 12, 2026, at his home in Las Cruces, New Mexico, following a courageous struggle with cancer. He was 89 years old.

Vaughn was born on September 8, 1937, in Silverton, Colorado. Over the course of a long and richly lived life, he became a man whose booming presence could fill any room and whose terrific sense of humor endeared him to everyone he met. He was a tremendously creative woodworker, a craftsman who found deep joy in working with his hands and in the beauty of a thing well-made.

For twenty-five years, Vaughn was a familiar and beloved vendor at the Farmer's Market, where his handiwork and his warmth drew friends and customers alike. He was also a devoted and lifetime member of the Optimist Club, giving generously of his time and spirit to his community. A lover of sports, he brought the same enthusiasm to the games he cherished as he did to every corner of his life.

Above all, Vaughn was a family man. He was a proud father to three, a grandfather to six, and a great-grandfather to nine. His legacy lives on in each of them.

Vaughn is preceded in death by his wife, Sandie. He is survived by his sons, Ron Larson and Matt Larson; his daughter, Linda Mounts; and his sister, Carleen Savoren, along with his son-in-law, his daughter-in-law, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward his memory.

A man of deep and abiding Catholic faith, Vaughn lived out his beliefs with humility and devotion. He now rests in the peace of the Lord he served so faithfully, reunited in eternal life.

A funeral service will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1327 N. Miranda, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005. Services will be held Tuesday, October 20th, 2026 at 10AM.

Vaughn created a reflection that captured the heart of who he was: "There is something about made things that carries the spirit of the maker with them. When you create something with your hands, you are not just doing the physical craft, you are pouring your thought, care, and love of the craft into it."

So too did Vaughn pour his thought, care, and love into all he made, and into all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed.