Obituary of James Grant Laird, III

James Grant Laird, III, 83, of Ashtabula, passed away peacefully, August 5, 2019.

He was born April 27, 1936 in Ashtabula, Ohio the son of the late James Grant Laird, II and Mary Emerson (Luther) Laird. James graduated from Harbor High school in Ashtabula and went on to earn a Degree from Michigan State University. He married the love of his life, Susan Carle, on December 28, 1961.

James began his career working at the family business, Laird Lumber Company. He also was in Sales for Scott and Williams in Greensboro, North Carolina and Laconia, New Hampshire. In 1974, he returned to Ashtabula to help run the Painesville, Ohio Laird Lumber Yard and went on the manage the Jefferson branch. James concluded his career in Sales for Union Sand Company. Jim was also a long-term faithful member of the Second Congregational Church and sang in the choir for several years.

Jim was a championship sailor and a humble, but formidable competitor at Ashtabula Yacht Club. His greatest pleasure was sailing with his family, especially his children. He loved to share the sport of sailing with others and introduced many to the joy of competitive sailing.

He is survived by his children James "Skip" Grant IV and wife Laurie of Ada, Ohio and Karolyn "Kelli" Laird Kerns and husband Bruce of Tampa, FL, two grandchildren, Zoe Irene Laird and Heather Elizabeth Kerns, and his sister, Lynda Dunbar of Ashtabula.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Susan in February 2016; son, Richard "Dewey" Laird in August 1999, and his parents, James Grant and Mary Luther Laird.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 10, 2019 at 11AM at the Second Congregational Church, 319 Lake Ave., Ashtabula with Rev. Glen Warner, Pastor Emeritus, officiating. Burial will follow at Ridgeview Cemetery.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday at the church from10AM until the time of service at 11AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Second Congregational Church of Ashtabula or to the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League, 5970 Green Rd. Ashtabula, Ohio 44004.

Ducro Funeral Services, 4524 Elm Ave., Ashtabula is handling arrangements. Online obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com