News Summary
Michael Scott McDannel, a beloved father and passionate fisherman, passed away at his home in Bristol, Virginia. Known for his storytelling and devotion to family, he is remembered fondly by the community. A graveside service is scheduled, and donations can be made to support his grandson’s future.
Bristol, VA – Michael Scott McDannel, a cherished father and passionate fisherman, passed away at the age of 54 on May 11, 2025, in his home in Bristol, Virginia. The community has mourned the loss of an individual known for his vibrant storytelling and deep commitment to family and friends.
Born on December 7, 1970, in Jacksonville, Florida, Scott was the son of Mike McDannel and Diana (Mitchell) Vaughan. He grew up in a loving environment that shaped his character and values. During his time at Fairfield Community High School, Scott was an active member of the school’s football team, the Mules. Football provided him with camaraderie and teamwork that extended beyond high school.
Scott was widely recognized for his love of fishing, often spending his weekends by the water. His friends and family fondly recall his engaging stories about his fishing adventures. This passion for the outdoors not only brought him joy but also served as a way for him to connect with his loved ones, demonstrating the importance he placed on relationships throughout his life.
Scott is survived by a close-knit family. His mother, Diana Vaughan, his son Jacob DeJarnatt (married to Cheyenne), and daughters Josie (married to Kelsey) Wingfield from Owensboro, Kentucky, and Matti McDannel from Herrin, Illinois, carry on his legacy. He leaves behind a grandson, Graham Wingfield, who also resides in Owensboro, Kentucky. Additionally, Scott is survived by his three sisters, Staci McDannel of St Joe, Nikki (married to Jeremy) Carter, and Holli (married to Heath) Belva, all from Fairfield, along with his brother Adam (married to Melanie) Vaughan, also of Fairfield. Special relationships were also important to Scott, whose lasting bond with his partner, Melissa Wampler, and her family from Bristol, Tennessee, contributed to the love and support surrounding him in his later years.
In addition to his immediate family, Scott is also survived by several nieces and nephews, who are undoubtedly heartbroken by the loss of their uncle. His grandparents, Hazel Mitchell and Noel and Reta Vaughan, along with his late father, Mike McDannel, and grandparents Tom and Betty McDannel, Rod and Peggy Clevenger, and Bob Mitchell, have played important roles in his life. He was also preceded in death by his brother Ryan Vaughan, who has also departed, leaving the family with cherished memories.
A graveside service is scheduled for 10:00 am on May 23, 2025, at Bestow Cemetery in Geff, Illinois. Family and friends are encouraged to attend the service to pay their final respects to Scott and celebrate his life. The gathering provides an opportunity for all who knew him to share stories, remembrances, and heartfelt goodbyes.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a custodial account established for his grandson Graham Wingfield. Contributions can be made at Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home or through Conard Financial Group to ensure the ongoing support of Graham’s future and education.
Scott McDannel will be remembered for his passion for life, love for his family, and his incredible storytelling ability. His legacy will live on through the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him, and he will be forever missed.
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- Wikipedia: Bristol, Virginia
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
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