Obituary of Harold Franklin Laird, Sr.

Harold Franklin Laird, Sr., 80, of Gloversville, New York, passed away on December 15, 2020 while visiting his daughter and son in the Houston, Texas. Harold was a loving and dedicated father, husband, grandfather, brother, and friend.  Harold was well known throughout Gloversville and neighboring communities as he was admired for having a warm, kind, charismatic personality. 

He always made himself available, often giving back to the community and all who met him have fond memories of shared stories and laughter in their exchange. Many never knew, when they saw Harold with his infectious smile and willingness to stop for a coffee or conversation that he fought a courageous 3-year battle with cancer.  

 

Harold was born in Judd Hill, Arkansas, on September 11, 1940; predeceased by his mother 

Thealor Alice Irene Laird, Father Edwin Theodore Laird and wife of 49 years, Audrey Theresa Laird. 

Harold is survived by his daughter, Michele R. Laird-Williams (husband Terry) of Missouri City, TX; son, Harold F. Laird, Jr., (wife Halemah) of Sugar Land, TX; three grandchildren, Alexander Williams (19); twins, Maya and Xavier Laird (10), three brothers: Roy Laird, Jacksonville, North Carolina,

Curtis Laird, Leesburg, Virginia and Author Laird of Nashville, Tennessee, and Sister-in-laws Betty

Laird deceased, Olivia Laird, Josephine Laird, and Marilyn Mc Walker as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, a host of relatives and friends.

 

In the late 1950’s Harold left Arkansas as a teenager to get a better education and moved to live with his Aunt Delodia Laird Ligon in Gloversville, NY. While attending Gloversville High School he discovered his first interest in photography and took photos for the High School Husky Growl newspaper before graduating with the GHS class of 1962.

 

His interest in photography led to a successful career as a professional photographer.  Harold worked as an apprentice under Frank Ambrose from 1962 to 1967.  Harold’s love and passion for photography led him to become an entrepreneur, he founded Laird’s Photography in 1968 and became one of the area most prestigious photographer for weddings, proms, special events, commercial work as well as local, regional and state events. Harold often shared many stories of how his passion for his profession led to life-time memories of his clients. Harold was hired as a staff photographer for the Leader Herald. He continued to operate Laird’s Photography while employed at the Leader Herald. With 32 years of service and retirement from the Leader Herald in 2002, Harold continued to operate Laird’s photography.

 

Some of his proudest work as a photographer was creating life memories from weddings, photographing Muhamad Ali, Mike Tyson, President Bill Clinton, Senator Ted Kennedy and countless other dignitaries. 

 

Harold had a variety of interests - enjoyed motorcycles, had a passion for cars which lead to another successful business venture formed in 1998, M &H Auto Brokers, named after his children, Michele and Harold Jr.  His extensive career as a photographer and connections led to a successful automotive business where he sold vehicles across the country.  Harold operated M&H Auto Brokers until his death.  

 

In addition to his photography and automotive profession, Harold was very involved in the community and served his country as an active member of the Army National Guard and a distinguished member of the drum and bugle core.  Harold participated and served as a Board member for several organizations and associations including Nathan Littauer Hospital, the Fulton County Arts Council, Gloversville Enlarged School District, City National Bank, and the Eccentric Club, where Harold was the first African American member.  He was the President of Harley Davidson local club, Automotive Club and team captain and tournament player on Kobuskie Bowling League.   

 

He provided educational programs and often spoke about his personal experience moving from segregated Arkansas to Gloversville, New York as a young teenager and living with his Aunt. He was a frequent speaker at Fulton Montgomery Community College, Gloversville School Classrooms sharing his photography and knowledge with students and displayed his photography at art shows. 

 

Harold accepted Christ at an early age that began at A.M.E Zion Methodist Church in Marked Tree, Arkansas. He became a member of the People’s A.M.E Zion Church, Gloversville, NY during his teenage years.  He was a longtime member of Fremont United Methodist now named Foothills United Methodist Church where he wed to his beloved wife.

 

Over the years, Harold captured the hearts of many who knew him as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and professional businessman.  He was a giving and wonderful man, who loved his extended family and friends.  He impacted many lives, leaving a lasting legacy and cherished memories. We will forever be blessed for having him in our lives.

 

In accordance with current COVID gathering and social distance restrictions, a private service will be held at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home. 

A link to view the recorded funeral service for Harold will be available on www.brbsfuneral.com starting the afternoon of December 29, 2020 and will be available for up to 30 days.

Interment will take place at Prospect Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife Audrey.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in honor of Harold Laird to the American Cancer Society (ACS) by calling 1-800-227-2345 or visiting ACS website: https://donate3.cancer.org

Arrangements are entrusted to Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, Gloversville.

 

To leave and online condolence, send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harold Laird, please visit www.brbsfuneral.com

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