Gloria Winifred Vaughn

Waterbury, CT- Gloria Winifred Vaughn, a lifelong resident of Waterbury, Connecticut, passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones on August 7, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on September 24, 1938 in Waterbury, CT to the late Winifred McKoy and John Cam. She was the oldest of six children, and lived a life rooted in faith, family, love, and service to others.

Gloria was a lifelong and devoted member of The Salvation Army, where she held several positions, including Treasurer and Pianist. Her faith was an important part of her life. Gloria also served as Vice President of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union of Connecticut. She loved the Lord and cherished her church community. Her love of music was evident throughout her life, especially through her gift and joy of playing the piano.

Gloria was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Apostle Debra McLendon, Elder Gail Mercer (Thomas), and Diania Ferguson (YDSM); her sons, John Ferguson (Effie), and the Honorable Michael L. Ferguson; her brother, Reverend Richard J. Cam; and her sisters, Evangelist Frances E. McIntyre-Smith and Patricia Cam-Beaver.

Gloria was preceded in death by her mother, Winifred McCoy, father John Cam, her sister Kay Julia Cam Richey, brother John Cam and her beloved grandson, Andre Ferguson.

Beyond her devotion to her faith and family, Gloria found joy in the simple things that made life special. She enjoyed cooking, music, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. Her home and her heart were places where family, love, and fellowship were always welcome.

Gloria’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, love, and family. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the many lives she touched and through the generations of her family who will carry her memory forward.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that her work here is complete and that her faith has carried her home.

She will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Please join our family to honor Gloria with a celebration of her life on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 9:00am-11:00am for viewing followed by a celebration of her life at 11:00am at the Salvation Army, 74 Central Avenue, Waterbury, CT. Burial to follow at New Pine Grove Cemetery, 850 Meriden Road, Waterbury, CT, followed by repass at the Salvation Army.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Alderson-Ford Funeral Home, Majors Brian and Amy Merchant, medical staff, and especially Dr. Anne Ong, for their care, compassion, and assistance.

The family thanks everyone for their love, prayers, support, and presence as we celebrate the life and legacy of our mother Gloria W. Vaughn.