Vaughn was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, where he attended Hillsborough County Public Schools before graduating from Tampa Bay Technical High School with the class of 1986. He had a deep love for life and found his greatest joy in spending time with family and friends. Whether he was swimming, listening to music, or enjoying rap battles, Vaughn embraced every moment with enthusiasm. His passion for rap music was undeniable, and he proudly referred to himself as “Mello V,” a nickname that reflected his love for the art and his vibrant personality. Above all, Vaughn was a devoted and loving father who took immense pride in his children and celebrated each of their accomplishments. His love, encouragement, humor, and unforgettable spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Garland and Rudine Hopkins; nephew, Leland Maurice Moses.

He leaves cherished memories to his wife, Debra L. Hopkins; sons, Cedrick Arnold (Deirdre) and Darren Ivery; daughters, Vonda Hopkins and Ashley Clayton (Byron); grandchildren, Kaden Merrill, Zyaira Arnold, Jaquaviun Arnold, Aryanna Arnold and Cedrick Arnold, Jr.; mother-in-law, Geraldine Gilchrist (Jimmy); father-in-law, Harold Carnegie; brothers, Garland Hopkins, Jr. (Janice) and Keith Hopkins (Tonya); sisters, Tonia Hopkins (Craig), Felicia Hopkins and Deidra Hopkins (Jermaine); uncle, Clarence Manning (Harriett); nieces, Tashawna Session, Mondriana George, Mondranisha George, Mondrierra George, Aaliyah Hopkins, Destini Williams and Ashley Adams; nephews, David Gay, Lester Mosses, Levertice Mosses, Demarcus Hopkins, Keith Hopkins, Jr., Keith R Hopkins and Jalen Hopkins; sisters-in-law, Annette Fagan, Sheryl Robinsonand Tasha Gilchrist; brothers-in-law, Jerome Fagan and James Fagan; friends, Tony Jones, Tim Fullwood, Darryl Stevens, Michael James, Derrick Pedro and Terrance Skip;  along with a host of other loving relatives. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever be cherished by those who loved him.