Roll Call Tribute

Leslie Dix "Dick" Laughter 

November 20, 1945 - July 24, 2024 

Leslie Dix "Dick" Laughter passed away July 24, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn., at age 78, after battling liver disease. He was born November 20, 1945, in Beaumont, Texas.

A graduate of A.C. Jones High School, in 1964, he was a member of the Corps of Cadets in Fighting Fox Company F-2 at Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Marine Engineering Class of 1968. Dick served in the United States Merchant Marines for three years while advancing to Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He worked in the Power Generation Industry for over 40 years, and directed a staff of up to 180 engineers and designers in permitting, engineering, and design of over 30 power projects.

He was preceded by his parents, Pyron Dix and Dora Emily Laughter; first wife, Elizabeth Anne Stevens Laughter; and sisters, Lucille Stephenson and Arnette Jackson.

He is survived by wife, Sarah Ann Laughter; sister, Laverne Hainline; son, William Pearson Laughter; daughter, Mary Elizabeth Schmitz; son-in-law, Christoph Schmitz; stepdaughter, Felice Bryant Young and Caleb Young; and granddaughters, Alyssa, Emily, and Evelyn Laughter, Anna Elizabeth and Mary Catherine Schmitz, and Isla and Lydia Young. A graveside service with interment of ashes will be held at a later date, at the Enon Cemetery, in Jackson County, Texas. Memorials may be made to Houston Collie Rescue.