Jack Everett Laughter

Jack Everett Laughter, 83, passed away on January 18th in Spartanburg, S.C.

 Dad would like you to know that his work here is done. He is driving his last long-haul. A one in a million trip, one that he couldn’t refuse, toward a destination from which he will not be returning. In addition, this trip comes with a huge sign-on bonus, a reunion with several of his children, family and friends, all of which he has not seen in a long time. 

There was so much more to him than just dad - he was also a friend, a coworker, cousin, brother, uncle, stand-in paternal figure, a grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a long-haul truck driver, a businessman, handyman, builder, farmer, the list goes on and on. 

 He was truly the hardest working man I ever knew…  I am sure even now he is working at something, with an occasional pause to chug on his bottle of peanuts and Pepsi

 Even though he received very little formal education, he definitely received a Doctorate in life and hard work, which he generously shared his knowledge and talents with anyone who stood beside him… especially his children – all children. And we learned well. 

 Although he was not a perfect man, his stubbornness was no match for even the biggest bull in his pasture, and he could be hard with unbelievably high expectation.  Yet his gift to us was strength, patience, resilience, love and the knowledge that if you were willing to learn and work hard enough, there was nothing you couldn’t do.

 He also taught us to look for God in the simple things. A wild rose blooming on the side of the road, a rainbow over his beloved mountains, the breeze across the cool lake, the birth of a new calf, the smell of the rich soil, the taste of cold watermelon and sun-warmed tomatoes, but mostly, looking up and seeing complete and utter pride in my father’s smile. 

 I will miss the feel of my hand firmly held in your hard, calloused hand, and our gentle conversations. But mostly I will miss your warm hugs and quiet laughter. 

Until we meet again, without suffering or misunderstandings… We love you daddy!