Danny Ray Laird

Danny Ray Laird, age 80, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025. He was born on June 15, 1945, and grew up in various parts of the United States due to his father’s career with Boeing.

Danny’s love of music began early in life when he learned to play the accordion as a child. His passion for music continued throughout his life—he became a skilled drummer, guitarist, pianist, and keyboard player. One of his most cherished memories was performing at the New Orleans Jazz Fest with the gospel group, The Lively Stones.

Danny honorably served his community for 27 years as a firefighter with the Kenner Fire Department before retiring as a Captain. Being a firefighter was important to him, and he never forgot the people he helped or the firefighters he trained. He also owned and operated Danny’s Locksmith Service in LaPlace and later served as a Federal Armed Security Officer.

He was a proud Republican and served on the Louisiana Republican Central Committee. He remained active in civic and community affairs wherever he lived.

Above all, Danny had a deep love for Jesus Christ and a lifelong devotion to studying the Bible. This love and devotion started with the teachings of his grandfather, Basil Campbell, who was a Methodist Minister.

Danny is survived by his devoted wife of fifteen years, Mary Herman Laird, and their beloved dog, Gracie Rose. He is also survived by his children: David Lastrapes (Laura), Donald Jones (Mary), Derrin Laird (Beth), Deanna Laird Delatte, Rhonda Scanlan (Trey), Dawn Laird Kendall (Cliff), and Robin Love. He was deeply loved by his 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Although an only child, Danny had a large extended family of friends whom he cherished as his own, including his childhood friend Paula Tyson, longtime friends Ed and Edie Poche, and Christine Edwards.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elston Emery Laird and Rose Elma Campbell Laird; his wife, Linda Brooks Laird; his son, Robert Ray; and his beloved pets, Beannie and Tinkerbell.

Pallbearers: Scott Delatte II, Joshua Laird, Trystan Lozier, Trey Lozier, Donald Jones, and Patrick Ray. Honorary Pallbearers: Trey Scanlan and Cliff Kendall

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Danny and his family in his final months.

Danny’s love for life, music, service, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to join he family for the visitation at Seale Funeral Home, 1720 S. Range Ave., Denham Springs, LA, on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 9:00 AM until the funeral service at 11:00 AM, Officiated by Fr. Abraham Villa, Danny's valued friend and former coworker. The graveside service and burial will follow at First Baptist Church of Sun in Sun, LA.