Michael J. Lafferty

Michael Joseph Lafferty, 82, passed away on January 6, 2026. He was born on February 26, 1943, in Dixon, IL to Olive and William Lafferty. After attending high school in Sterling IL, he majored in history and political science at Monmouth College, where he met his one true love, Ann Murphy. They graduated in 1965 and were married in December of that year, two days after becoming "an officer and a gentleman" in the USAF. After spending a year in pilot training in Lubbock, Texas, Mike served as a Captain for 6 years, including 1 tour in Vietnam, 2 short tours in Thailand, while stationed at Griffiss AF base in Rome, NY. For his service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Mike began a career as a commercial pilot with Eastern Airlines in 1972, making Gloucester his home for 53 years. He also began a photography business, flexing both his commercial and artistic skills. He retired in 2000 from US Airways, and was able to focus on photography, being active outdoors, and spending time with the people he enjoyed. A favorite pastime was springtime rides through the Ozark mountains on his motorcycle.
He was proud of his family. He supported his wife and his daughter's interests and careers. He was a superb cat Dad and an excellent Uncle. His friend groups were varied and vital, Conclave, SCYC, the ROMEOS, The Cabin, The Cluster, St Mary's, and Studio 33. He was great at making people laugh, but is revered for his kindness to all creatures great and small.
Mike is survived by his wife and best friend of 60 years, Ann; their daughters Kacy and Sarah; son in law, Scott Aalbers; granddaughter Marina Aalbers; brother, Bill Lafferty and his wife Sonje, their children Mary, Karen, and Michael, and their families; and his nieces, Ann Albright and Sue Langstaff. He is predeceased by his sister Judy Albright and brother Ed Lafferty.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 24 Broadway, Rockport, MA 01966 on Friday January 23, 2026, at 10 a.m.