David Laughlin

William David Laughlin, 66, of Salem, Alabama, passed away at home on April 20, 2024. William David Laughlin was born on March 7, 1958, to Charlie Burt Laughlin and Martha Pearl (Spurlock) Taylor in Columbus, Georgia.

David was a proud Red Jacket and graduated from Jordan High School in 1976.

David began working at Tom’s Foods in 1975, where he dedicated 23 years of his life. After leaving Tom’s, he stayed in the snack food industry, working at Lance Snacks, Frito Lay, and Flowers Bread Company before health issues caused him to retire.

David met the love of his life, Benita Ann Dawson, in November 1982. Together, they had three children: Jonathan David, Cortney Nicole, and Tesa Brooke.

David's passions reflected his colorful personality. He was an avid sports fan and always loved watching all sports, but he especially enjoyed cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs, the Atlanta Braves, and the Columbus State University Cougars. David had an extra special place in his heart for Dale Earnhardt and NASCAR.

He found joy in the timeless music of The Beatles, the classic storylines of Western movies, and the humorous characters of The Andy Griffith Show.

David was predeceased by his father, mother, and grandmother, Claudie Pearl Spurlock.

David's love for his family was a beacon in his life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Benita; his three children, Jonathan (Traci), Cortney Wilson (Craig), and Tesa Warren (Lewis); and his cherished grandchildren, Brooke Jordon (Josh), Jonathan David Laughlin, Jr., William Ray Laughlin, Kalynn Michelle Laughlin; Coleman Jay Warren; Craig Wynell Wilson, and Baby Warren on the way. His siblings, Burt Laughlin (Dana), James Laughlin (Peggy), Terry Laughlin (Gerry), and Tammy “Renae” Tutor, also carry his love in their hearts.

Services will be held at Vance Brooks Funeral Home, Phenix City, Alabama, on Friday, April 26, 2024, at 3 PM (EST), with Reverend Lynn McManious from Beaver Creek Baptist Church officiating. The family will receive friends from 2 PM until the funeral hours on Friday at the funeral home.

The family requests donations be made to the Columbus State University Athletics Department. https://almabase.columbusstate.edu/g/csu-athletics-in-memory-of-david-laughlin