Richard Allen Laird

Richard Allen Laird, 80, of St. Augustine, Florida, passed away on January 2, 2026, at Kindred Hospital in Green Cove Springs. Rich was born in Camden, New Jersey, and grew up in Stratford, New Jersey, where he graduated from Sterling High School in 1964. He attended Eastern Kentucky University before proudly joining the United States Army Reserve, serving during the Vietnam War era. In November 1966, Rich met the love of his life, JoAnne, at James Place Lounge. They were married on September 7, 1968, and together raised their family in Haddonfield, Barrington, and Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Rich enjoyed a long and distinguished career in sales and marketing for R.L. Fitzwater and Sons, serving the Philadelphia, Delaware, and New Jersey areas. After transferring to Atlanta, Georgia, he worked for Unilever and later retired as National Business Development Manager at Advantage Sales & Marketing in Jacksonville, Florida. His dedication, professionalism, and strong relationships defined his career. After retiring to St. Augustine, Florida, Rich fully embraced life’s pleasures. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed gardening and fishing, and especially loved traveling with JoAnne. Together, they shared a passion for fine wine and dining, and Rich was a true wine connoisseur. Rich was a dedicated and lifelong Philadelphia sports fan – especially the Philadelphia Eagles. Go Birds. Rich will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to family and for the many friends whose lives were better for knowing him. He is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnne; his children, Deborah Lamir and Daniel Laird; his grandson, Cameron Lamir; his sister, Judith Rassa, and her children, John and Jennifer Rassa; brother-in-law, Michael DiPrizito, and his children, Jeff DiPrizito, Elizabeth Colantuonio, and Frederick DiPrizito. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Eileen Laird; his brother-in-law, Joseph Rassa; and his sister-in-law, Linda DiPrizito. The family is planning a celebration-of-life memorial to be determined at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Richard Allen Laird

October 14, 1945 - January 2, 2026