Vincent Laird

Vincent Laird, 87, of Galesburg, died peacefully Monday May 17, 2021. Vincent was born May 1, 1934 in Griggsville, IL, the son of Merrill and N. Laverne (Moore) Laird. Vince married Kay Nordgren on December 21, 1956 in Galesburg at First United Methodist Church. He is survived by his loving wife, Kay Laird and their four children; Susan (John) Palmer of Gilson, Jeff (Kim) Laird of Glen Ellyn, Kathy (Dennis) Bauling of Winnebago, and Scott (Cassie) Laird of Petersburg; one brother, Donald Laird; one brother-in-law, Rollin Nordgren; 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Vince was a dedicated community member and an educator. Before starting his career in education, he served in the U.S. National Guard as First Lieutenant for 4 years. He was part of the Galesburg School District for over 20 years as a teacher, principal, Director of Special Education and Director of Curriculum. He then moved his family and career to Oneida to join the ROWVA community as the Superintendent of schools for the remaining 16 years of his career. Vincent was an avid golfer and loved woodworking. He enjoyed helping with Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and Galesburg Rescue Mission. He was a part of the Lions Club and a member of First United Methodist Church for 64 years. Visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, May 21, 2021 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, with a funeral service to follow at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic please follow CDC guidelines regarding masks.  Entombment will take place after service at Oneida Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to ROWVA School District, First United Methodist Church, Greig Memorial Library or Galesburg Public Library.