George L. Laird

George L. Laird, 84, of rural Little York, IL died at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at his home in Bald Bluff.

He was born on September 27, 1932, in Seaton, IL, the son of Ronald and Velva (Hale) Laird. George attended the Bald Bluff grade school and graduated from Little York High School in 1950. He later attended the University of Illinois.

He served in the United States Army from 1950-1952, where he was stationed in Germany. Upon his return home, George was employed at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant in Middletown, IA for a few years. He returned home to run and oversee the family farm in 1956.

George married Mary Jo (Martin) Sharer of Alexis on May 6, 1966, she survives.

George enjoyed reading farm and historical books, playing marbles games, and going on car rides to look at the farms. He served as a Bald Bluff Township Trustee for many years.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo, three sons; Brent Sharer of Galesburg, IL, Jeff (Mitzi) Sharer of Little York, IL, and Chris (Lisa) Laird of Thornton, CO, two daughters; Kim (Dave) Olin of Galesburg, IL, and Lisa Powers of Little York, IL. Also surviving are grandchildren Aaron & Ashley Olin, Megan, Brooke, & Brandon Sharer, Brock Powers, Ashley & Justin Lefler, Hunter & Heather Laird, 11 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. George has two surviving brothers; Dean Laird of Montgomery, IL, and Bob (Janet) Laird of LaSalle, IL.

George was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters; Ruth Simmons, Marilyn Osborn, and Donna Laird.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Per Georges wishes no services will be held. Memorials can be made to the Little York Fire Department, Little York Ball field or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, is in charge of the arrangements. As George always said, “Don’t take any wooden nickels, Tootle-Loo!!”