Lee J. Vaughan

June 22, 1942 - February 29, 2020

Albany-Lee J. Vaughan, of Albany, NY, passed away on February 29, 2020. He was born on June 22, 1942 in Buffalo, New York, the first child of Robert L. and Mary Bainbridge Vaughan. Lee’s life was a testament to justice and mercy. Lee’s high school years were spent at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute. At Canisius College, where he majored in English, was the Sports Editor of the Griffin, participated in ROTC and student government, and sang in the Glee Club. In 1964, Lee joined the Peace Corps and he served almost three years in Konea, Lofa County, Liberia. There, he taught an elementary school classroom, held a semi-regular medical clinic, and assisted his friend and fellow volunteer in completing construction on a school building. Upon return to the United States, Lee joined the New York State Division of the Budget as an entry-level professional and continued there until his retirement thirty years later. He worked long, difficult hours, but enjoyed the camaraderie of his coworkers in the Division. He rose rapidly through the ranks to become assistant chief budget examiner. From his early days, Lee was recognized for his intelligence, leadership, negotiating and creative problem-solving skills, writing ability, and integrity. Open to all who approached him, he was highly respected and well-liked by anyone who worked for or with him, and by those who negotiated with him in the State government, the Legislature, and private industry. Lee became the director of the revenue section of the Fiscal Planning Unit of the Division. During his tenure, he frequently was called upon to resolve issues involving State and local tax forecasting, State fiscal affairs, bond financing, tax administration and changes in State and local taxes. These were often related to State and local financial crises (particularly those of New York City). During such crises, many at all levels of government and industry relied on his calm demeanor and extraordinary problem-solving skills. His quiet sense of humor also helped. In his Budget career he received many awards and accolades, at both the local and national levels (including recognition by the American Society for Public Administration and the National Association of State Budget Officers), for his exemplary service. Lee loved gardening and being outdoors. One of his favorite places was Blue Mountain Lake, where he spent over 35 summers with his immediate and extended family. He spent many happy days viewing the Adirondacks from Castle Rock and the porch of Pine Knot. After retirement, Lee supported many organizations both financially and with his time. He was a long-time Apheresis Blood Donor. He drove regularly for the American Cancer Society, making sure that folks got to their appointments. Lee was a regular volunteer at the Food Pantry at St. Vincent de Paul’s parish for many years. He also served as the treasurer and a board member of the Albany Fund for Education for 12 years. During that time, he strengthened the organization’s finances and operations with his analytic mind, integrity, patience, and eye for detail. Equally important, Lee provided a moral compass and compassion for the needs of Albany’s students. Lee thought clearly and cared deeply. He was instrumental in AFE providing grants for student achievement, addressing food insecurity, and building opportunities for all students to grow, learn, and succeed. Lee is survived by his wife, Varada Pandya Vaughan, and his four children: David, Peter (Karyn Silverman), Catherine, and Rebecca, and two grandchildren, Kieran and Leo. He was predeceased by his first wife, Julia Hassett, his brothers-in-law Gene Straight and Joe Hassett and his stepbrother John Lindsey. He is also survived by his four siblings Maureen (Gene Straight), Mary (Fran Cosgrove), Theresa (David Cherubin), and Thomas (Sharon McGlone), stepbrothers Peter Lindsey (Holly Yehnert), Rick Lindsey (Linda King), Robert Lindsey (Cassie Kronberg), Jim Lindsey, and stepsisters Ann Lindsey Takeuchi (James Takeuchi), and Patricia Durlak (Robert Durlak) as well as many well-loved nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Lee’s family Wednesday, March 4, 2020 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Funeral services Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 11:30 am St. Vincent De Paul Church, Albany, NY where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont, NY. To leave a message for the family, please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Amnesty International or to The Food Pantry at St. Vincent de Paul or a charity of your choice. Lee is already sorely missed.