Les Laughlin

Les D. Laughlin

Les D. Laughlin

Les D. Laughlin, age 61 of Lascassas, died on March 28, 2011 peacefully at his home, after a long illness.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Linda, and his three sons, Tony of Lascassas, Steve of Murfreesboro, and Chris of Brentwood. He was the proud Pa Pa of two grandchildren, Elijah (5) and Emma (2). His mother, Thelma Hoyt and sister, Susan Kisinger, reside in West Lafayette, IN.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lester Laughlin and his adoptive father, Jess Hoyt.

Les was born on March 8, 1950 in Linton, IN. He was a Letterman for both the track and swim teams before graduating West Lafayette High School in 1968. He attended Purdue University and graduated from the St. Elizabeth School of Nursing. He proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy from 1970-1979, where he won the 5th Naval District Diving Championship.

Les and his family moved to Murfreesboro in 1979, where he was employed at the Veterans Administration Hospital. As an entrepreneur and member of the Chamber of Commerce, Les co-founded Total Life Concepts, Inc., which opened the first adult day care center in the State of Tennessee, the Respite Center of Murfreesboro. In 1991, Les began operating Shooter's Pub, an entertainment spot showcasing local musical talent. In 1994, he acquired his Real Estate License and worked for the Tarpley and Folk-Jordan Realty companies.

As a member of the Murfreesboro Soccer Association, Les was involved in building the first soccer complex in Murfreesboro. Through the years, he served as a sponsor, coach, and referee for several youth soccer teams. He was also a supporter and actor for the Murfreesboro Little Theatre.

During his retirement, Les became politically active. He worked vigorously to prevent an income tax from being enacted in Tennessee, and represented his state as an elected Delegate to the Libertarian National Convention in 2004.

Les spent his latter years playing Santa for his grandchildren and exploring his hobbies of golf, genealogy and archeology. He touched the hearts of friends, family and co-workers, and will be sadly missed.

A Celebration of his life will be 4 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2011 at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Rev. Jeremy Squires will officiate. Columbarium Inurnment will be in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be from 2 until 4 p.m. Monday, at Woodfin Memorial Chapel, (615) 893-5151. Online condolences may be made at www.woodfinchapel.com

Published in The Daily News Journal on April 2, 2011 

 

PLEASE - If you knew this classmate write memories to share with others as a "comment" below.  Thank you!