James Laird

LAIRD, James – age 91, passed away on July 22, 2017 at Genesys Health Park in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2017 from 2pm – 4pm and 6pm – 8pm at Hill Funeral Home – 11723 S. Saginaw Street, Grand Blanc, Michigan. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2017 at 11am, Pastor John Brainard officiating, with one hour of visitation prior to the service at Hill Funeral Home. Interment will take place at Sunset Hills Cemetery with Military Honors. James was born on June 5, 1926 in Paisley, Scotland to James and Dolina (Salisbury) Laird. Since his father was born in Ireland, he was very proud of his Scottish and Irish roots. St. Patrick’s Day was his favorite holiday and he always dressed in green from head to toe. At the age of 17, James joined the United States Navy. He proudly served his country during WWII in the South Pacific. On April 26, 1952 James married the love of his life Joyce Harvey and together they created a life full of happiness and love. James retired from Buick in 1979 after 30 years of service, was a member of UAW #599, served as a school crossing guard at Eisenhower Elementary School after retirement, was a respected Boy Scout Leader, a committed Christian, and proudly sang with the Court Street United Methodist Church Senior Choir. Music was his life! His life was a perfect reflection of his favorite song “If I can help somebody along the way, then my living will not be in vain.” James volunteered at nursing homes sharing his love of music via the harmonica and his wonderful vocal talents. He was a proud supporter of the CRIM race; he ran the 10 mile the last time at age 80! He then went on to supply water for the runners during training and the race. James was a hardworking, generous, compassionate man that will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, including his special community of friends at Kearsley Daly Villa. He is survived by his children: David Laird, Carol (Bill) Sweatland, Bethany (Bob) DeLay, Brian (Peggy) Laird; grandchildren: Becky (Ryan) Moreau, Scott (Joylynn) Sweatland, Angela (Cody Nicholls) Laird, William Laird; great-grandchildren: Lindsey, Sara, Nolan, Jake, Jackson; sister-in-law, Ida Mae (Floyd) Stayt; brother-in-law, Edmund (Mabel) Harvey; and several loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joyce; beloved brother, Bill; and sister-in-law, Jean Coselman. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Richfield Road United Brethren in Christ Church where James was an active and loved member. Arrangements under the direction of Hill Funeral Home, Grand Blanc, MI.