Rachel Cosby Vaughan Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For Rachel Cosby Vaughan

Rachel Parthenia Cosby Vaughan, 91, died on December 14, 2020, peacefully in her sleep at VCU Medical Center, surrounded by her family holding her hand. Rachel was born November 8, 1929, in Richmond to Lillian and Harvey Cosby, Sr. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jesse Sr. and brothers Bobby and Harvey Jr. Rachel was the last surviving relative in the Cosby family. She attended Van De Vyver School and Saint Joseph’s Church growing up and as Vice Chair of the Committee that restored the original bell of Saint Joseph’s parish, she led the effort to create a public park on the school’s original site. She graduated from Armstrong High School and then went on to college on scholarship to study at Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana, in the Class of 1950, majoring in journalism. She was the second African American girl to attend Saint Mary’s. Rachel then served 38 plus years as a career federal government employee, retiring as a Management Analyst for the Department of Housing and Urban Development in RVA in 1983. She was instrumental in starting the Women’s and Toastmistress programs within that agency. She loved her bosses, Mary Anne Wilson and Andrew Epps and co-workers so much. Rachel was an active member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, chairing the Funeral Committee and volunteering to assist in various charities. Her interests included ensuring her children all matriculated through college, macramé, sewing, singing and playing the piano. Rachel was an avid fisherwoman and was known to catch the biggest and most fish. She is survived by her daughters Venita Vaughan and Evelyn McGill (Clarence), her son Jesse Vaughan, Jr. her grandsons Evan and Askia McGill, three great grandsons, one devoted, Askia Zahkee, and nephew Michael Stewart (Paula, Torin). She was Godmother to Stephanie Sams (Joseph), Charles and Brian Tyler. Thank you to VCU Home Health, Dr. Rackson, Nurses Drew and Adderly, Dr. Sarah Hobgood and her Team and Care Givers Amy Woodson and Tonia Beverly for their exceptional care provided to Rachel during her illness. In lieu of flowers please feel free to make a donation to your favorite charity. Services are entrusted to Scott’s Funeral Home, where remains can be viewed on Friday, December 18, 10a.m.- 7p.m. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, services will be live streamed on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. for viewing and 11:00 for Mass at https://www.facebook.com/holyrosarychurch

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Much love and prayers to you dear family. Ms Vaughan was truly special- a light to many. God bless you as you grieve and find your "new normal." He is faithful to see you through. Hugs! Kristin & Keith & fam

Sending love and prayers for strength and days of light filled with beautiful memories.
Tara Dunlop Jackson

My condolences to Venita,Lyn and Butch.

On behalf of the Dunlap, Greene and Tucker families, wonderful memories of growing up on Haelhurst Avenue floods my mind. We had caring, loving and nurturing neighbors. It was truly a village. Mrs. Vaughn was an encourager as she would often tell us to strive for your best. My brother would always make sure that he stopped by to visit her whenever he came home to Richmond. God will see you through this difficult time. Nita, Lynn and Butch although time and distance has kept us apart, I want you to know I love you. Keep in touch. cdunlap@rvaschools.net Cynthia Dunlap

Nita, Lynn, and Butch: I have loving childhood memories of you and your family. Ms Rachel was such a classy lady, admired by all who knew her. Loving condolences to you all! Precious Memories linger... Love you forever! Valencia Adkins Short aka Lenci

Evelyn and Jesse, I was saddened by the passing of your mother. My condolences to you and the family. Be proud that you took care of her very well and our Heavenly Father said well done. Always with you in spirit. Joanne Curtis Taylor

God sends Angels and certainly we were touched by one. MS Rachel was a very special child of God as she journeyed through life on her way home. Few achieve as much as her. She lived each day to impact. We offer our sympathy in your time of need. Its been a long time Venita and Lynn but I never forgot the family and village of Brookfield Gardens. Your mother had an incredible smile. We lived a house over (1960s) and shared so many memories. Be safe and Be Blessed. Michael Taylor of Lois Giles Tyler Street.

To the family of Ms. Rachael, my sincere condolences. Ms. Rachel always had the most beautiful warm smile. May you allow the many precious memories to sustain you during this challenging time. May the perpetual light shine upon her. Wilhelmina Burrell-Shelton

My condolences to the family. I love you Venita.Your mother was beautiful. The last time I saw her was when the two of you visited me in the nursing home and you were so happy together. You all stay strong & know that GOD is with you always

Sincere Condolences extended to the family! So many great memories as a DHUD Mentor and Friend. Tilda Davis

We have lost a loyal friend, Union member and civil rights advocate. I will never forget how she volunteered to mentor employees at HUD, helped the homeless, and served the AFGE Local 3380 as a Charter member, Officer in numerous positions and represented employees throughout her career. She remained a member as a retiree. She will be missed! Ann Taylor, President AFGE Local 3380