Surrounded by his loving family at St. Joseph’s Hospice on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, Stanley James Laird passed away at the age of 90, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Devoted husband of Florence (Flo) for 46 years. Loving father of Gary Laird, Cathy (late Michael) Jordan, the late Kathy Dufault, Debbie Dufault, Paul (Dora) Laird, Pamela (Jim) Cunningham, Peter (Janet) Dufault, and Kevin (Lori) Laird. Will be deeply missed by his 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Gord Laird, Doug Laird, Connie Oakes and Betty Small, and brother-in-law of Evangeline Laird and Maureen Laird. Survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Lester and Margaret Laird; brothers Wes Laird and Rev. Lester Laird; sisters-in-law Joyce, Violet, and Yvonne Laird; and brothers-in-law Charlie Phillips, Floyd Oakes and Don Small.
Stan was a crew manager for 43 years at CNR. After retirement, unable to sit still, he started a dog-boarding kennel and drove school buses. He also put his carpentry skills to great use by building the dog kennels, backyard decks and remodeled a cottage with his brother Doug. Stan was an avid Montreal Canadiens fan, never missing a game, and also cheered on the NY Yankees. He adored his grandchildren and nieces and nephews, always greeting them with his signature handshake. Stan will be fondly remembered as funny and frugal but also kind and generous, always willing to lend a helping hand.
Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Sunday, March 17, 2024, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., with prayers being offered at 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Monday, March 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow in Resurrection Cemetery. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Canadian Cancer Society (cheques only at the funeral home please).