Thomas Roy Laird

Thomas Roy Laird departed his earthly home on January 31, 2025 to go rest on the highest mountain as he soars even higher to his tranquil heavenly home. He leaves behind to cherish wonderful memories Bette Kennedy Laird, wife of 65 years; Thomas Vernon Laird, son; Amy Laird McCreary, granddaughter; Thomas Earl Laird, grandson; Lyla McCreary, great-granddaughter; JJ Laird, great-grandson; John Laird, brother and wife Anne; Eltimae Mctain, twin sister; EllaRae Laird, sister-in-law; cousins and nieces and nephews. 

Born October 21, 1936, he is preceded in death by Thomas S and Sadie Quave Laird, parents; Oscar Lee Laird, brother; Shirley Kennedy Losey, sister-in-law; and Felder and Gracie Kennedy, father and mother-in-law.

Most of the early days of his 88 years were spent in the then-small community of Ponchatoula attending and participating in church, Boy Scouts, and school activities with graduation from PHS in 1955, proudly serving as class president. Highlighting these years was earning the Chevalier Degree of the International Order of DeMolay. Adding to his deep faith in a supreme being and commitment to service; Thomas displayed a strong work ethic through part-time employment in several local businesses.

After high school, Thomas was proud to serve four years on activity duty in the United States Air Force at various bases and induction centers. After returning home, he completed his BS at SLU along with Masters Degree plus 30 graduate hours and began his career in education serving as a school counselor, administrator, and sponsor of both school and church youth groups. After retiring from the TPSS, Thomas continued in the profession of education as a sales representative for The Psychological Corporation and later counselor and technology coordinator for other school districts.

Thomas enjoyed many years of fishing, sponsoring Boy Scout troops, and loved his beautiful 300-year oak trees and maintaining his home and yard throughout the year. Plans were always in place for the next travel spot throughout the United States, cruises, and Europe. He, and sometimes grandkids loved both the beaches and mountains and the many wonders offered on all trips.

Thomas has often been referred to as a role model for assistance to hundreds of students and co-workers in offering guidance in academic issues and been noted as ensuring students graduate with unrivaled scholarship opportunities.

It is with heavy hearts and everlasting love that family and friends say a final goodbye to our loved one as he leaves a long memorable life here on earth and raises on eagle's wings to shine like the sun at his new home.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that family and friends contribute to activities of young people as needed for assistance in completing their education.

Final arrangements for Thomas include a visitation period at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula, 100 W Magnolia Street, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM until the funeral service begins at 1:00 PM.