Thomas Edward Laughlin

Thomas Edward Laughlin

March 15, 1940 – September 7, 2022

FAMILY RECEIVES FRIENDS: SUN, Sept 11, 2:00PM followed by VIGIL SERVICE, 4:00PM. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: MON, Sept 12, 10:30AM, St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 5801 Oak Hills Dr, Omaha, NE.  Memorials are suggested to St. John Vianney Catholic Church or Catholic Charities.

To view a live broadcast of the Services, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click on the “View Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.

Thomas Edward Laughlin lived life with optimism, faith, and freedom. He was born in Omaha, Nebraska to parents, Joe and Florence Laughlin. He was the first of 10 children, married in 1960 to his Italian Princess, Rosie, and father to 6 children, 17 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

His optimistic spirit made him a natural cheerleader rooting for any sports team; his favorites being the Huskers and horseracing. His free spirit allowed him to be king of the dance floor, master of ceremonies at any party, singer of the oldies, and the Laughlin poet laureate. He was also a staunch republican valuing his liberty and ready to defend his position on anything political. But it was his faith that truly set him free.

The way he lived his life prepared him for his last moments. He offered his suffering for the Dervin family. He cheered on the nurses and doctors even when they told him medicine could not solve his condition. His response was, “You did a good job.” When asked if the nursing students could see this rare heart device, his response was, “Bring them all in!” When he was told the intubation of the ventilator could stop his heart, he said, “Okay, then, change of plans.” We all were blessed with time together like the family gatherings he so fondly loved. We gathered around his bedside. He held our hands and told each of us how much he loved us and how proud he was of us all. We reminisced about our lives together. He knew who was ultimately in charge and had the confidence to surrender his life to Jesus. There was no fear in the end; only joy. He continues to be an inspiration. May he rest in peace.