Jean Laughlin McLeod
Jean Laughlin McLeod, 72, passed away Monday, August 29, 2016, after her battle with cancer.
Jean was born August 20, 1944, in Goose Creek, Texas, to Geneva and Wilmer Laughlin. She was a proud 1962 graduate of Robert E. Lee High School, where she was active in the Robert E. Lee Marching Band and various other student organizations. Following high School, Jean went on to attend and graduate from Texas Christian University, where she earned degrees in English and History. Additionally, Jean participated in the TCU marching band.
After graduation, Jean pursued a 37-year career as a History and English teacher. She began her career at Woodrow Wilson Junior High in Port Arthur, Texas, before returning to Baytown to teach at her alma mater, Robert E. Lee.
Jean had a lifelong passion for the preservation of historical landmarks. This began as a student at Alamo Elementary saving pennies to restore the Battleship Texas. Over the course of several years, Jean worked tirelessly to record cemeteries in Texas for genealogical researchers. Most recently, her crowning achievement was conducting the research and authoring the application for Robert E. Lee High School’s listing as a State Historical Landmark. Thanks to her efforts, a State Historical Marker stands in front of Robert E. Lee High School today.
Jean also had steadfast commitment to helping animals. Her home always included multiple rescued cats and dogs and she also contributed to both national and international wildlife conservation efforts. In the years after she retired from teaching, she loved her weekly bridge games, participated with CAP, volunteered at the Brown-McKay house and helped acquire the John C. Sjolander House for the Baytown Historical Preservation Association.
She is preceded in death by father, Wilmer N. Laughlin, and mother, Geneva Kirk Laughlin of Baytown, Texas.
Jean is survived by her husband of 49 years, Ronald D. McLeod of Baytown, daughter, Rhonda McLeod of Houston, son, Todd McLeod of Houston, sister, Wilyne Laughlin of Baytown, and numerous extended family members and many beloved friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Baytown Humane Society, the American Cancer Society, or an animal shelter of your choice.
Visitation was held on Thursday, September 1, 2016, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, and funeral will be on Friday, September 2, 2016, at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at 1:00 PM on Saturday, September 3, 2016, at the Augusta Cemetery located in Augusta, Texas.
To view the online obituary or to post a tribute for the family, go to www.navarrefuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521 (281) 422-8111
