Mrs. Emily Ruth Laughrey, age 85, Jonesborough, passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at her residence.
Mrs. Laughrey was born on December 4, 1939, in Wilmington, NC to the late Dolphus C. & Claudine Willard Sessoms. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John D. Laughrey, and a grandson, Cameron Laughrey.
She was an active member of Jonesborough Presbyterian Church. She played the piano and organ for many churches and loved being in the Handbell Choir.
Mrs. Laughrey was a graduate of New Hanover High School in Wilmington, NC and graduated from Watts School of Nursing. She served as a Registered Nurse in the US Army and US Air Force.
Survivors include son, Timothy Scott Laughrey, Franklin, TN; brother, David C. Sessoms, Fayetteville, NC; stepchildren, Denise Hays, Albian, MI, Jon Douglas Laughrey, Las Vegas, NV and Lisa Clark, Rives Junction, MI; and three grandchildren, Christopher Laughrey, Catherine Laughrey, and Viviana Laughrey.
Services will be conducted at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 423-753-3821
I am so sorry to hear that Emily has passed away. John & Emily (along with their schnauzer, Heidi), were my next door neighbors in Casa Grande, Arizona, when I was growing up in the 80s and 90s. Before the time of cell phones, Emily's house was the designated house to go to if something was wrong or I was locked out of my house. I remember her running out of her house to help me one time when I crashed on my bike, and I fondly remember going to one of her handbell performances at Central Arizona College at Christmastime one year. She had just been in contact with me last year, expressing hopes that my husband, son, and I would have a chance to travel to Tennessee to visit her. I'm sorry we didn't get the opportunity to do that. She was a very special person to me growing up! Sending my condolences to her family during this time.
Emily was such a sweet & pleasant lady, with a beautiful smile. I truly enjoyed getting to know her these past several years. I know she is smiling in heaven, & happy to see John. Rest in peace my friend.
Emily, you have been a great friend for many years. I have sang with you in our choir, played bells with you, and enjoyed hearing you play our church piano and organ. Your ever present smile and continuous positive attitude elevated everyone's spirit. You will be greatly missed. Enjoy Jesus warm embrace, you deserve it.
03/18/2025
Kim Freyermuth
My dearest Emily…May God guide you to your heavenly home with John. I love you and the time we spent making music in Casa Grande and all over the world with bells. Thank you for your friendship. You are precious to me…God bless the family as you find peace.
I loved playing in the hand bell choir with Emily. We will miss her smiles and laughter, but we know she is smiling and laughing with her husband John.
John & Emily were great friends and neighbors for many years. Rest in peace
03/17/2025
Cindy Blakeney
You couldn’t meet a finer and sweeter lady than Emily. She was one of my neighbors. Loved talking to her and it looks like Macy has found a good home. We will miss you Emily.
