AMHERST, NS — The Amherst community is deeply saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Vaughn Phillip Martin, aged 61, on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Vaughn was a larger-than-life figure, well-known and cherished throughout his hometown, where he lived most of his life on “the Hill,” in the house where he was raised by his beloved Aunt Margaret.
Born on January 1, 1964, Vaughn graduated from Springhill Vocational School’s electrical program and spent over three decades working at Enheat and later IMP. He later served the Town of Amherst, where he was celebrated for his beautiful flower baskets, admired by locals and tourists alike. During a strike at IMP, Vaughn pursued bricklaying studies at Akerley College, Dartmouth, which laid the foundation for his own successful masonry business—a source of great pride.
Vaughn’s passion for sports was a defining part of his life. A talented athlete in his youth, he excelled in hockey and baseball, known especially for his pitching skills. His hockey career evolved into coaching, where he led a Midget Bombers team to an undefeated provincial championship. He also coached the Amherst Junior A Ramblers, guiding them to a provincial championship during his tenure as head coach—a team his son Jeremiah later played for.
Known for his sharp wit and generous heart, Vaughn was always ready to help others, sometimes at his own expense. A passionate cook, he developed his culinary skills after the birth of his son Jeremiah, specializing in seafood chowder that was legendary among family and friends. Recently honored with a seven-year pin from the local Lions Club—where he also volunteered as a cook—Vaughn’s talents and spirit enriched many lives.
Gardening was another of Vaughn’s beloved hobbies, earning him the affectionate nickname “Farmer Clem” from his Aunt Lucy, as he generously shared fresh produce with family and friends.
The most cherished person in Vaughn’s life was his son, Jeremiah, whom he loved fiercely. Their close bond was evident to everyone who knew them, with Vaughn proudly supporting Jeremiah at countless games and events. The loss of Vaughn is profoundly felt by Jeremiah and the entire community.
Vaughn is survived by his son Jeremiah (Amherst); stepson Justin Court (Maddie) of Ottawa; partner Stacy Paris (Amherst); Aunt Jackie Fowler (Prince George, BC); brothers Shannon Robertson (Ontario) and Eric Robertson (Amherst); mother Donna Hilson (Ontario); nephews Reese Burbine and Chase Deleon; great aunt Gladys Riley; Jeremiah’s mother Lisa Martin; close friends Ed Cooke, Randy Farrow, Randy Hicks, David MacDonald; and his faithful Newfoundland dog Marvin, lovingly known as Bubs.
He was predeceased by his great aunt Margaret Martin, who raised him; father Alfred “Hooky” Martin; sister Cindy Delion; aunt Lucie Bishop; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.
Service Details:
Arrangements are entrusted to Campbell’s Funeral Home, Amherst, NS. A celebration of Vaughn’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11 a.m., officiated by Rev. Jonathan Cole at the First Baptist Church, 90 Victoria St E, Amherst. A reception will follow the service, with a private burial at Amherst Cemetery.
The family invites those who knew Vaughn to share stories and honor his memory with a toast—preferably with a glass of Caption Morgan’s dark rum, one of his favorites.
Vaughn Phillip Martin’s legacy of kindness, humor, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.