PARK RIDGE/WESTWOOD, N.J.—Friends and family members are raising funds to help cover funeral and final expenses following the unexpected death of Bruce D. Laughton, a former youth and high school coach, devoted father and recovery advocate remembered for his generosity, humor and dedication to others.
Laughton, 54, passed peacefully and surrounded by family on June 11.
A Park Ridge native, Laughton raised his children, Elena and Colby, in Westwood, where he coached several of their youth sports teams. He later coached high school sports at Park Ridge High School and Paterson Arts & Sciences Charter School.
According to his obituary, Laughton’s “pride and joy in life” were his children. He continued to support their athletic endeavors throughout high school and college, attending nearly every game, match and meet.
A graduate of Ramapo College with a bachelor’s degree in history, Laughton spent most of his career there working in security, maintenance and facilities management. During his tenure, he developed friendships not only within his departments but across campus.
Through his own recovery and road to sobriety, Laughton became heavily involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups, where he found a strong community of friends and helped many others become and remain sober.
Family members and supporters describe him as someone who left a lasting impression on nearly everyone he met.
“No one who met Bruce could ever forget him or the belly laugh he most certainly made you produce,” organizers wrote in a fundraising appeal established following his death. “Bruce had a way of lighting up every room he walked into, and even brief interactions left you feeling better for it.”
Organizers said the last decade of Laughton’s life brought significant personal growth and renewed purpose. “He was a worker amongst workers, a friend you could always count on, and above all, the dad he always wanted to be … Bruce was excited about this new chapter in his life and had planned for a future, not for its end.”
Donations are being sought to help the family manage funeral costs and other final expenses.
“Any contribution, big or small, will make a difference and is deeply appreciated,” the appeal states.
Laughton is survived by his children, Elena and Colby Laughton; the children’s mother, Laurie Laughton; members of the extended Prusha family; his sister, Kim Laughton; his brother, Scott Laughton; and nephews Drew and Finn.
He was predeceased by his parents, Mary and David Laughton.
Visitation will be held at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood on June 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. and June 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.