Jean E. Laughman

Jean E. (Young) Laughman, 90, of Hanover, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at UPMC Harrisburg. She was the devoted wife of the late Frederick J. Laughman, Sr., with whom she shared 42 cherished years of marriage until his passing in 1993.

Born on January 17, 1935, in Hanover, Jean was the daughter of the late Ervin and Pauline (Louey) Young. A lifelong resident of Hanover, she attended Eichelberger High School and met Fred at the tender age of five. Their childhood friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were married when Jean was just 16 years old. Together, they built a life rooted in love and faith, raising their six children in the same home they purchased as newlyweds, a home Jean continued to live in throughout her life.

Jean held several part-time jobs over the years, but her true passion and life's work was found in caring for her family and serving her church. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, and the heart of her household. Even during difficult times, Jean created a warm, welcoming, and joyful home for her loved ones.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Jean was a founding member of Missionary Bible Baptist Church in Hanover, established in 1955. She remained an active and faithful member for 70 years, dedicating much of her time to the church's children's ministry. Jean taught Sunday School for many years, extending her loving spirit and guidance beyond her own family to the children of the congregation.

Jean is survived by her six children: Star Dehoff and husband Terry of Hanover; Sandy Warner and husband David of Selby, SD; Fred Laughman, Jr. and wife Sharon of Twin Mountains, NH; Sharon Harlacher and husband Ryan of Dover; Joe Laughman and wife Susan of Martinsville, VA; and Sara Hilty and husband David Hilty II of Spring Grove. She also leaves behind a remarkable legacy through her 36 grandchildren, 120 great-grandchildren (with one on the way), and 23 great-great-grandchildren (with more expected), as well as many beloved extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Jean was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Lockner.

A service to celebrate Jean's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Missionary Bible Baptist Church, 920 Beck Mill Road, Hanover, with Pastor Mark Rohnke officiating. A time to share memories and an opportunity to view will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at Mummerts Meetinghouse Cemetery, 391 Mummerts Church Rd, Abbottstown, PA 17301.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jean's memory may be made to Missionary Bible Baptist Church.

To share memories of Jean E. (Young) Laughman and to view a video tribute, please visit www.wetzelfuneralhome.com.