Doug Laughton

Noted Promotional Marketing Executive, H. Douglas “Doug” Laughton died of pancreatic cancer on March 11, 2024, in Bonita Springs, Florida. He was born on January 18, 1945, in Rochester, New York, to Henry Fennow Laughton and Shirley Louise McCandless.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years and business partner, Barbara LaVilla Laughton, of Bonita Springs, FL and Rochester, NY, and his daughters Karrie Laughton, Rochester, NY, Kristina Laughton, Grand Junction Colorado and former wife, Kathryn Laughton, Rochester, NY; grandchildren Kacie Laughton, Devlin McManis, Kara Laughton, and Jessica Pearson. Also surviving are sisters Nancy (Otto) Moosburner, Elizabeth Wright, and brother David Laughton. Additionally, In-Laws, Mary and Bill Parsons of Naples, Fl, along with several nieces and nephews as well as a host of extended family members, close friends, and business associates.

Doug was a 1962 graduate of West Irondequoit High School and a member of the First Graduating Class of Monroe Community College in 1964. He received a B.S. Degree from Rochester Institute of Technology in Business & Graphic Design in 1968.

A born entrepreneur, Doug began his career developing innovative consumer marketing programs for Rochester’s Blair/Dubois/BBDO agency with noted clients such as - Corning Glass Works, Seneca Foods, and Disney. By the late 80’s, he established his own niche marketing company, Laughton Marketing Communications which introduced multi-brand promotions and sweepstakes to consumer’s daily marketing experience. Its branch, US Sweepstakes & Fulfillment launched national programs for Time Inc., Hallmark, Whole Foods, Revlon, and Sara Lee. Doug was an active member in the PMA, AMA and considered a leader in the promotional marketing space. US Sweeps was purchased by the well-known digital marketing firm Votigo Inc., in 2020.

Doug’s creative business sense also served him well in his home and private life. Graced with great wit and humor – Doug continued to amaze with his unique, fun, undertakings. He loved hosting themed get togethers for his friends – most notably on St. Patrick’s Day. And had a passion for redecorating his favorite pontoon boat like a Tiki Boat – it was docked for many years on the Erie Canal – providing boat rides to friends with great libations and food. These activities were his passion, and he still has the moniker “Captain Doug”.

In addition to his family, Doug was devoted to US Veterans and First Responders who serve our country and personally supported their many needs.

Doug's family would like to personally thank Dr. Mark Rubin and his staff, Bill and Jenny, at the Florida Cancer Specialists for their outstanding care and comfort.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Doug's life on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, from 12Noon -3:30pm. at the Hodges Life Celebration Center, 26501 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. www.hodgescelebrateslife.com

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made in Doug Laughton’s Name to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation (dogood.t2t.org)