Gary Phillip Maughon

Gary Phillip Maughon, 74, of Richland, Mississippi, passed away at home surrounded by his family on August 3, 2026. Born on September 12, 1951, in Jackson, Mississippi, Gary lived a life full of laughter, loyalty, and love. If you knew Gary, you probably have a story to tell—and chances are, it starts with him making you laugh.

Gary proudly served the City of Jackson Fire Department, retiring as a lieutenant after years of faithfully serving his community as a fireman, EMT, and rescue diver. He was the kind of firefighter people could count on, but he was also the one who could lighten the mood with a joke, a smile, or his quick wit. Gary also proudly served as President of the Local 87 Firefighters Union in Jackson, where he fought tirelessly for the protections, benefits, and fair wages of JFD employees.

His dedication to serving others extended far beyond the firehouse. Sports were one of Gary’s greatest passions. He was a die-hard Ole Miss fan and never missed a chance to cheer on the New York Yankees. His love for sports didn’t stop in the stands. He started and managed multiple sports memorabilia businesses throughout the Jackson Metro area with his lifelong friend, Barney Finch. For years, he also coached baseball and softball throughout southern Rankin County, helping shape not only better athletes but better young people. Many former players still remember “Coach Gary” for the encouragement, life lessons, and fun he brought to every practice and game.

One of Gary’s proudest achievements was becoming the State of Mississippi Light Heavyweight Golden Gloves Boxing Champion, a reflection of the determination, discipline, and competitive spirit that stayed with him throughout his life.

Above all else, Gary was a family man. Nothing made him happier than spending time with the people he loved. He adored his wife, Scotta, and together they built a beautiful life over 55 years of marriage. He was a proud dad who loved his family with everything he had.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Scotta McDaniel Maughon; his children, Traci Maughon, Timothy Maughon (Alisa), and Jodi Welch (Ronnie); his sister, Charlotte Wilson (Darrell); his brother, David Maughon (Kim); and his sister-in-law, Louise Maughon.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, LeRoy and Hazel Dearman Maughon; and his brothers, Glenn Thomas Maughon, Leon Maughon, and LeRoy Maughon Jr.

Gary leaves behind a legacy that can’t be measured by awards or titles alone. He’ll be remembered for the laughs he shared, the lives he touched, the example he set, and the unconditional love he gave so freely. His stories will continue to be told, his jokes will continue to be repeated, and his memory will live on in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know him.

The world is a little quieter without Gary, but Heaven just got a lot more fun.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Children’s of Mississippi Hospital in Gary’s honor.

A visitation will be held at First Baptist Church of Richland on August 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.