Shirley Ann R. Laughter

December 11, 1936 - January 26, 2015
Shirley Ann R. Laughter

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Shirley Ann Ray Laughter, 78, of Hendersonville, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2015. A native of the Revere Community of Madison County, she was the daughter of the late Odus and Dorothy Ray.

Shirley graduated from Sand Hill High School and Western Carolina University. She influenced the lives of countless students in Henderson County during her 37 years of teaching and had a special gift of teaching children to read. Following her retirement, she devoted her time to her family, especially her grandchildren, and enjoyed growing beautiful flowers. Shirley was a member of Hendersonville First Baptist Church.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Jimmie Laughter, and by her four sons, Franklin Laughter, Jonathon Laughter, Chris Laughter and wife, Miranda, and BJ Laughter and wife, Amy, all of Hendersonville. She was the cherished grandmother of four, Josh Laughter and fiancÈ, Kelly, Emma Laughter, Jordyn Laughter, and Avery Laughter, and the great-grandmother of Peyton Laughter. Shirley is also survived by her brother, Champ Ray and wife, Shirley; her sister, Dorene Cutshall and husband, Chester; her nephews, Allen Cutshall and Steven Ray, and niece, Karen Wentcel; and her brother-in-law, Joseph Laughter.

Shirley will be remembered by her family for her never-ending love, which she showed every hour of every day.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, January 29, 2015 in the chapel at Forest Lawn Funeral Home with Pastor Eric Gash officiating.


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  • January 27, 2015
    Chris, Heather, and Sam Stepp says:
    Dear BJ, Amy, and Emma, We are so sorry. Your family is dear to us and we are hurting with you. Please know we're thinking of y'all, and praying for you. With love, Heather Chris and Sam

  • January 28, 2015
    denese hamilton williams says:
    I want to send my condolences to the Laughter family. I knew her son Franklin and knew her as a teacher as well. She was a great lady. So sorry for your loss.

  • January 28, 2015
    Kim Cooley says:
    So very sorry for your loss. I fondly remember Mrs Laughter, my 1st grade teacher. She taught this left hander how to write well without turning my hand upside down! She never seemed to forget her students and protected them like they were her own. Hoping peace and sweet memories soon replace your sadness.

  • January 28, 2015
    Michael Edney says:
    You guys are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • January 28, 2015
    Buz Van Horne says:
    A life well lived. She will be missed.