On March 24, 2026, Dr. Napoleon N. Vaughn, a respected psychologist, educator, author, and entrepreneur of Philadelphia, passed away, leaving a lasting legacy of service, scholarship, and community impact. Born in South Carolina, raised in Washington, D.C., and later making his home in West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dr. Vaughn rose from humble beginnings to become a leader in psychology and community development. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University and both his Master of Education and Doctor of Education degrees from Temple University. 

Dr. Vaughn served his country as a Captain and Research Psychologist in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, completing nine (9) years of military service. Following his military career, he established a distinguished professional path across clinical and educational settings. He worked extensively with children, families, and under served populations, including serving within the Philadelphia Prison System and maintaining a private psychology practice in West Philadelphia. 

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Vaughn was deeply committed to economic empowerment and educational access. He founded Urban Market Developers, Inc., an organization focused on supporting Black‑owned businesses, and served as Director of the Student Achievement Center, where he helped students pursue higher education opportunities. He was also a Fellow of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association and a frequent speaker on issues related to mental health, justice, and community advancement. Dr. Vaughn was a published author whose works reflected both his professional expertise and his deep concern for social conditions. His books include *Gotcha et al*, a forensic psychological novel informed by his clinical experience, and *Who’s Who in Greater Philadelphia in the Negro Community* (1968), a directory highlighting influential Black professionals and preserving an important record of leadership within Philadelphia’s Black community. 

Dr. Vaughn is survived by his daughter, Sarah‑Beth; his granddaughters, Aidah, Kelly, and Kira‑Ann; and Georgann, his longtime companion, who lovingly cared for him in his final years. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins of the Gill family, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Glenn Vaughn, and his parents, Sara Brownlee and Napoleon Vaughn. Dr. Napoleon N. Vaughn will be remembered for his perseverance, leadership, intellectual rigor, the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable life, and the joy he found in cheering for his beloved Philadelphia Eagles.

Relatives, friends, students, fellow educators and colleagues are kindly invited to attend Dr. Vaughn’s visitation on Sunday afternoon, April 19, 2026 from 12 noon to 2 pm at the McCann - Healey Funeral Home: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service and U.S. Army Military Honors will start at 1:30 pm. Cremation and Final disposition will be private.

Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Napoleon N. Vaughn.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Napoleon’s name may be made to Howard University at Donation · Howard University · GiveCampus Please note online: Dr. Napoleon N. Vaughn

Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCann – Healey Funeral Home: Gloucester City Ph: 856 - 456 -1142