FLAGSTAFF, AZ – The family of USMC LCpl David Dweight Laughter is requesting a funeral escort on Thursday January 7, 2021.
STAGING: 10:45am Norvel Owens Mortuary, 914 E. Rte 66, Flagstaff, Az.
KSU: 11:15 am
DESTINATION: Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery- Bellemont, Az
ROUTE: east on Rte 66, right on Ponderosa Pkwy an onto E Butler, merge onto W I-40 for 12.8 mi, exit 185 for Transwestern Rd at Bellemont
Gravesite service will be conducted for immediate family only. Thereafter, visitors may pay their respect immediately following services will be conducted in accordance with CDC and Navajo Nation Covid-19 guidelines to protect friends and family. Thank you for understanding and cooperating.
USMC LCpl David Dweight Laughter enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1972 (age 19). During his service, his MOS was 0311 Infantry Rifleman and he was part of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, nicknamed “The Walking Dead”. He was stationed on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, while he served during the Vietnam War. He took part in operation LamSon 72. David was Honorably Discharged in 1974, before he returned to the Navajo Nation. He met his wife, my mom, Arlene Sombrero in the spring of 1975; while working/attending Monument Valley High School. They were married on Sept 6, 1975 at Inscription House, Az. He continued to service his community by working for the Navajo Nation as a Branding Inspector, Liaison for Tribal Work Experience Program, Job training as a Welder (relocated his family and him to Pascagoula, Mississippi), Welder for San Juan Power Plant and CDK Construction Company (on top of Black Mesa), 1981 completed his Cert in Automotive and Diesel Mechanic School at the Universal Technical Institute using his Montgomery GI Bill, 1991 got elected to Chapter President for Inscription House Chapter, Shonto Preparatory School Board President, 1995 Council Delegate for Inscription House Chapter 1995-99, School Board President for Kinłání (Flagstaff) Dormitory, and NAGSA President.
He has helped his community in so many ways while serving them as a political leader and as a spiritual leader he has helped many people from all walks of life, through the Native American Church. He believed, valued, and practiced the Navajo traditional ways and teachings of life. David was a family man and was always believed that you should help those who cannot do for themselves and inspire and teach the youth. His enlightenment was always sought in education, belief, lifelong bonds, and retain Navajo Culture and language. His leadership is exemplary as he was dedicated to the needs of the people and always held the best interest of all. He will never be forgotten and will live on through his teachings and his family, children, and grandchildren. Rest in Peace Marine.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC LCpl David Dweight Laughter. We thank you for your service, you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace marine.
Contact: Dion McCraig (son)
Dmc2003g@yahoo.com