Robert Earl Vaught

CELEBRATING A LIFE WELL LIVED
Robert Earl Vaught, lovingly known as the “Kosmik Cowboy,” age 72, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.  Robert was born on January 24, 1954, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Earl and Caroline “McCormack” Vaught. In June of 1976, he married the love of his life, Marcy Vaught, and together they built a life centered on family and devotion.

He graduated from Guthrie High School in Guthrie, Oklahoma, and later attended Rose State College. Over the years, Robert worked as a Machine Maintenance Specialist at Hickory Springs and as a welder at Air Systems, both in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Robert’s life was marked by hard work and independence from an early age. As a young teen, he delivered newspapers, joined the military at just 17 years old. Robert proudly served his country from 1971 to 1973 during the Vietnam War as a Power Generator Equipment Operator and Mechanic.Music was the heartbeat of Robert’s life. He was an accomplished guitarist and a skilled craftsman who built his own guitars. Beyond music, he had a deep compassion for animals and rescued countless cats over the years. He stayed engaged with current events and never hesitated to share his views. Strong, hardworking, and deeply devoted to his family, Robert lived with purpose and conviction. He did things his way and always took care of what mattered most to him.

He is survived by his children, Justin Vaught, David Vaught, and Michelle Phillips; his grandchildren, Gavin Phillips, Kloe Phillips, and Gage Phillips; his siblings, Lester Vaught, Keith Vaught, Debbie Vaught, and Jody Vaught; his nieces, Allison Glynn and Raven Epperson; and many friends too numerous to name.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marcy Vaught; his fiancée, Diana Miller; his mother, Carolyn McCormack; his father, Earl Allen Vaught; and his brother, David Vaught.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Chapel, 4817 Kelley Highway, Fort Smith, Arkansas. A graveside service will follow on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Smith National Cemetery, 522 Garland Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Services are under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel.  Flower can be sent to Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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