LAUREL - Bernard Franklin Laughlin was born on Saturday, Sept. 14, 1940, in Corning, N.Y. to Bernard F. and Stella Campbell Laughlin, the oldest of six children. He departed this life on Thursday, Jun. 8, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. He was educated in the Public School System of New York. He was lovingly known as "Bernie", Reds or Pappy. Bernie joined the United States Marines in 1957, and was honorably discharged in 1960. In 1975, Bernie relocated to Pennsylvania where he started driving truck where he learned that skill in the military. In 1979, Bernie and June were married and since they loved the area, they moved to Laurel.
He worked as a truck driver for Kaye Construction in Seaford; Chambers Motors in Bridgeville; Kroger's Salvage in Laurel and most recently, Melvin Joseph in Millsboro.
Bernie enjoyed fishing, crabbing, shooting pool and relaxing, drinking a beer and rooting for the Buffalo Bills football team.
Preceding Bernie in death besides his parents were one sister; and one grandson, Matthew.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 38 years on May 26, June; five children, David (Gail) Peterman of Benton, Pa., Linda (John) Danner of Benton, Pa., Vicki (Tim) Swank of Laurel, Chris Bradley (Jeff Absher) of Laurel and Mike (Lisa) Peterman of Delmar; 11 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings are, Bob (Mary Lou) Laughlin of Corning, N.Y., Danny, Sandy and Debbie, all of New York.
Services will be private.
To offer words of comfort and to sign the guest book visit www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com. Professional services entrusted to Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Seaford.