J.T. Laughlin

J.T. Laughlin, 91, of Clifton, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024. Born on April 3, 1933, in Beattie, Texas, to Monta “Montie” Laughlin and Ima Bingham Laughlin, J.T. lived a remarkable life filled with hard work, humor, and a love for speed—both in cars and in life.

Known affectionately by close family as “J Baby,” J.T. grew up following in his father and brother’s footsteps. At just 13 years old, he began working at newspapers, taking on a variety of typesetting and pre-press jobs. He eventually became a linotype operator at the Stephenville Empire-Tribune. He later continued this work in Dallas, where he remained in the printing industry until that type of work was phased out.

While living in Stephenville, J.T. met JoAnn Gardner, and the two married in 1952 in Huckabay, Texas. From their marriage four children were born: Toni, Laura (Lolly), Jeffrey, and Rachel.

J.T. spent most of his adult life living in Dallas, Texas, where he built on his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. In addition to his printing career, he enjoyed buying and selling used cars and running a wrecker service. He was very reliable and never missed a day of work.

He had a passion for classic cars and motorcycles, living by the motto “the faster, the better.” He purchased only one new car in his life—a 1969 Mach 1 Mustang—but his adventures with vehicles were many. Among his hobbies were roller skating, dancing, and water-skiing. One of his proudest moments came in 1964, when he performed as an exhibition skier during the opening of Proctor Lake in Comanche County, showcasing tricks like skiing backward and barefoot. He and his first wife, JoAnn, also owned and operated a skating rink in Stephenville, where he taught countless people how to roller skate.

To his grandchildren, J.T. was simply “Granddad,” a name he wore proudly—until his youngest great-granddaughter lovingly renamed him “Doo-Dad.” It was a nickname he embraced with joy, a reminder of the special bond he shared with his family across generations.

J.T. will be remembered as a man with an unmatched wit, the ultimate joke teller, and a stranger’s greatest ally—always ready to lend a hand or even his last dollar. Despite his many accomplishments, he never valued material possessions, focusing instead on living in the moment and spending time with loved ones. Known for his sharp appearance, J.T. could always be found in a crisp white button-down shirt, black slacks, and polished patent leather shoes, his hair perfectly in place.

J.T.’s humor, kindness, and adventurous spirit leave a lasting legacy, and his family finds peace knowing that his life was truly well-lived.

J.T. was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, LeRoy Laughlin, Martha Sue Skaggs Eads, and Donald Ray Laughlin; and his beloved wife, Josephine Laughlin.

He is survived by his children: Toni Evans (Phillip) of Clifton, Laura Laughlin of Clifton, Jeffrey Laughlin (Valerie) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Rachel Schmidt (Jimmy) of Clifton. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Keith Headrick, Sarah Lindley (Bryce), and Bryce Laughlin; and his great-grandchildren, Lauren Headrick (Colten) and Harper Lindley. J.T. also leaves behind many other relatives and friends.

 Service Details

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at DeLeon Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 P.M. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Clifton Funeral Home.