Larry Andrew Laughman moved into his eternal dwelling in the heavens on Thursday, February 10, 2022. After eighty-three incredible years on this earth, the Lord finally called him home.

Larry's story began on a Thursday as well, July 28, 1938, when he was born to the late Virgil and Carol (Shelt) Laughman in Elkhart, Indiana. Elbow room at the Laughman dinner table proved scarce as Larry shared it with his parents as well as six brothers and sisters—Melvin Laughman, Ronald Laughman, Marian "Rocky" Laughman, Linda Francesconi, Sharon Markle, and Margaret  Spice.

On July 28, 1956, Larry left his father and mother to be joined as one flesh to the always-beautiful, Kathleen "Kathy" Lantz. Together, God blessed them to be fruitful, multiplying into a family of forty-nine, which doesn't even count their in-laws—that is, five children, fourteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers; daughter, Diane Byrd; and grand-daughter, Tara. He is survived by his children, Melanie (Ron) Zimmerman, Steve (Mary) Laughman, Connie (Robert) Lusco, and Larry (Shawn) Laughman; grandchildren, Chad (Teresa) Edwards, Tonya Edwards, Ashley Scott, Steven Laughman, Daniel (Charleen) Watson, Mandi (Patrick) Erdes, Kari (Patrick Corbett) Sheffer, Angela (Cory) Dobbin, Shaun (Vanessa) Sheffer, Megan and Morgan Trosper, Misty (Lee) Avery, Lacey Hill, and John Jordan; and all of his great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Family is one of God's most precious gifts, and he gave to Larry abundantly. Better yet, Larry never neglected this gift but cherished it more than anything. He especially delighted to spend time with his grandchildren, who enjoyed lovingly teasing him.

Larry was an independent, hard-working man, which he proved through both his character and his hobbies. Those who knew him best knew his determination was as strong as steel. If he ever needed someone's help, he wasn't quick to admit it. Perhaps this rugged fortitude is why he admired John Wayne, who was also a champion of personal integrity, individuality, and courage. Larry's character lended itself to his favorite activities, which included working on cars and tending to his garden.

Larry, however, wasn't all work and no play. He loved an occasional escape into the serenity of nature, camping at Chain o' Lakes and other places, as well as following his favorite football teams—namely, Michigan and the Chicago Bears.

In November 2021, the joy of Northside Baptist Church joined the joy in heaven as Larry heard the voice of his Shepherd, followed him, and submitted to baptism. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, he professed his faith and symbolically joined himself to the Savior his soul.

All are welcome to fellowship in remembrance of Larry on Thursday, February 17, 2022, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at Billings Funeral Home (812 Baldwin Street, Elkhart, IN 46514). Visitation will continue Friday, February 18, 2022, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Larry's home-going service will follow at 1:00 pm. Pastor Carl Henry of Northside Baptist Church in Elkhart will officiate. Though Larry is already at home with the Lord, we will lay his body to rest at Olive West Cemetery.

Please consider making a donation in Larry's memory to either St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105) or Shriners Hospitals for Children (c/o Donor Relations, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607).