Robert Lee Laughlin passed away at his home, surrounded by his family on April 14, 2026.  He was born to Floyd and Ruby Routh Laughlin on March 5, 1936 in Randolph County.

Robert was a good man, willing to help anyone who needed it.  He would pull over on the side of the road to help someone who had broken down, putting his 60+ years of mechanics experience to use.  He loved to fish, loved to go riding, and loved to vacation in Cherokee and Maggie Valley with his wife of 59 years, Betty.  He enjoyed getting a bucket of chicken and riding down to the Pisgah Covered Bridge.  He liked to tell stories to his family, especially about little known local history.  Most of all, he loved his God.  A good ol' country boy, Robert will be missed deeply.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his grandsons Michael Laughlin and Brandon Laughlin.

Robert is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Laughlin of the home, daughter Angela Wilcox of the home, son Bobby Lee Laughlin of the home, daughter Tammathy Dunlap of the home, his grandchildren; Christopher Wilcox (Kayla) of Randleman, Mia Wilcox of the home, Stephanie Wilcox of Franklin, Matthew Wilcox of the home, Jennifer Dunlap of Randleman, and Mason Dunlap of the home, his greatgrandchildren; Malasia, Natalee, Christopher, and Brentley, and his close friend Harvey Butcher.  He is also survived by Fruitloop, his little dog he loved deeply, and Orchid his bird that he loved so much.

Pugh Funeral Home is honored to serve the Laughlin family.