William “Don” Laughlin, a resident of Henryetta, died Sept. 10, 2023 in Norman at the age of 91. He was born Oct. 16, 1931 in Quinton to Claude and Jalie (Wilkerson) Laughlin.
After graduating from Wilson High School, he met his wife Nellie Hughes. During his ten-year military career in the Air Force, he was stationed in Japan and Greenland and served in many locations stateside. Don and Nellie moved back to Henryetta to raise their family.
Don left his mark on many places in Henryetta by having the 40-foot flagpole at the library installed with a plaque honoring the Vietnam war veterans and his dad, Claude Laughlin. He also helped the Friends of the Library raise funds to renovate the library building. Don served on the Parks Board as Chairman.
Don is survived by his daughter Terri Thompson and husband Rick; son Mike Laughlin and wife Lisa; grandchildren: Brandi Bland and husband James, Reid Thompson and wife Whitney, C.J. Laughlin, Lance Laughlin, Wes Laughlin and wife Lauren; three great grandchildren: Isabelle Bland, Beau Thompson and Juliet Laughlin, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
Don has requested that his ashes are to be buried with his wife Nellie on their wedding anniversary.
Visitation for family and friends will be Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023 at the Shack Restaurant (Backroom) from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Family requests in leu of flowers, memorials can be made to the charity of your choice in memory of Don.