Vaughn Lee Simkins, age 87, passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025 at his home in Conway, Arkansas.  He was born on July 19, 1937 in Tripp County, South Dakota to Jesse and Lucille "Lucy" (Sheldon) Simkins.  Vaughn was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Lucy Simkins; his daughter, Stephanie Simkins; and three older brothers, Carroll, Donald and Vernon.

Vaughn spent the first half of his life working the family farm where he grew up near Clearfield, SD. There he raised cattle, corn, alfalfa and of course, his family. He owned the local ZIP feed store and Stiehl dealership for a time but spent every spare moment honing his woodworking skills to become a full time master carpenter in the second half of his life.  His amazing craftsmanship lives on in homes and custom cabinetry across South Dakota, Illinois and Arkansas. Always the farmer, he became an avid gardener, constantly in search of unique seeds to sow.  Among other things, he loved growing tomatoes and hot peppers to give away since he didn't like them himself!  Full of helpful advice and willing to lend a hand to anyone, Vaughn led a long and faith filled life, starting each and every day by reading Mornings with Jesus.

Vaughn is survived by his wife, Denise; son, Troy; daughter, Mary (Floyd) Walker; granddaughters, Kaitlin (Kenneth III) Siemen and Kacie (Jeff) Jamroz; great-grandchildren Kenneth Siemen IV, Lyla Lucy Siemen, Alexia Jamroz, Graham Jamroz, Finnegan Jamroz. Denise's daughter Brandie (Robert) Wilcox; and son Robert Osborn; her grandchildren Hannah Osborn, Angelo (Rachael) Corsere, Nikki Corsere, Brandon Corsere, Amy Gericke, and Hannah Osborn; great-granddaughters, Audree Gericke; her sister Sandy (Jay) Drenth.

No services are planned at this time. Vaughn's ashes will be laid to rest later this year with his family in the Winner Cemetery, Winner SD.