James F. Laughlin of East Liverpool, Ohio, passed away Sunday, Nov. 12, at East Liverpool City Hospital, following a lengthy illness. He was 88 years old.
Jim was born Nov. 30, 1934, in Georgetown, Pa., to John W. Laughlin of Shippingport, Pa., and Cora Mae Nash of Georgetown, Pa. He held dear memories of his childhood in Georgetown.
He was preceded in death by three beloved brothers, John W. Laughlin Jr. of Poland, Ohio, Paul R. Laughlin of Beaver, Pa., and Ronald L. Laughlin of Bradenton, Fla.
Jim attended Lincoln High School in Midland, Pa., and later graduated from the Ohio Valley Business College in East Liverpool, Ohio. His dedication to learning and his strong work ethic were evident throughout his life.
In 1957, Jim answered the call of duty and served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany, from 1957 to 1959, and was honorably discharged in 1963.
In 1961, Jim married Irene Golba from Midland, Pa., and they resided in East Liverpool, Ohio. Irene was his partner in life until her passing on Aug. 15, 2013.
Jim’s career path took him from Crucible Steel in Midland, Pa., where he was employed as a master scheduler, to a career as a successful car salesman at Colonial Chrysler Plymouth in Beaver, Pa. His dedication and passion were recognized by his many customers.
Jim is survived by his daughters, Suzanne P. Laughlin, who resided with him, and Diana R. Laughlin of East Liverpool, Ohio. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas M. (Elizabeth) Laughlin of Aliquippa, Pa., and his dear friend, Carol Kelley of Industry, Pa.
Jim’s life was a testament to the simple joys he cherished. He enjoyed traveling, singing, whistling, bowling, golfing and avidly supported the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. His greatest happiness was attending his daughter Suzanne’s musical gigs and engaging in spirited sports discussions and going to games with his daughter Diana. He also shared countless memorable vacations with Suzanne and Diana, exploring the U.S. together.
In accordance with Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, a memorial service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, Nov. 25, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Care Funeral & Cremation Services-Martin Chapel in Calcutta, Ohio, to celebrate Jim’s remarkable life. At 1 p.m., Jim will be laid to rest at Columbiana County Memorial Park where full military honors will be accorded.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation at https://www.healthinaging.org.
James F. Laughlin will be dearly missed, but his legacy of love, comedic wit, and cherished memories will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
11/22/23