In Loving Memory of John Vaughn Latham

John Vaughn Latham (81), of Springer, New Mexico passed away on July 14, 2023
at the home of his daughter, Lorrie Latham, in Placitas, NM. John was surrounded
by his family and died peacefully.
John was born on January 9, 1942, in Brady, Texas to A.R. Latham and Henrietta
(Topsy) Latham. He spent his youth at his home on Deer Creek, a home that was
built in the mid-1800s by his Latham ancestors. Early in his life, John knew that he
loved the outdoors and being around cattle and horses. He spent his entire life
doing what he loved: being a rancher and spending his days on the back of a
horse. He married the love of his life, Sonja Dianne Latham, nee Cox, in August
27, 1961 in Brady, TX. They had three children: A.R., Lorrie, and Kelly. John spent
time working on ranches throughout Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado. He also
worked for the New Mexico Livestock Board in Taos County and Colfax County
and Superior Livestock Auction. He enjoyed raising his own cattle and horses and
caring for them throughout his life. He was loved by many for his sense of humor,
his kindness, and his generosity. He was cherished by his family for his sound
guidance, unwavering love, and steadfast support. John devoted his life to his
family and to the cowboy lifestyle that he so loved and respected.
John was preceded in death by his brother, Riley Latham. He is survived by his
sister Cynthia Sutton (Jeffrey Sutton) and brother James Warren Latham. He is
also survived by his wife, Sonja Latham, and their three children: A.R. Latham
(Karina Latham), Lorrie Latham and Kelly Latham as well as his grandchildren:
John Riley Latham, Luke Friedfertig, and Hannah Townsend.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to GlobalGiving: Give Health
& Purpose to a Neglected Horse in John’s name. Donations are also accepted for
the family cemetery: Deer Creek Cemetery, PO Box 1789, Mason, TX 76856
John V. Latham will be missed by all those who were blessed to have had him in
their lives. A celebration of his life is planned for September 23, 2023, in Springer,
NM.
“All good things are wild and free”
Henry David Thoreau