John Ruxton Laidlaw

John Ruxton Laidlaw

December 23, 1931 – October 26, 2026

Our beloved father, John Ruxton Laidlaw, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2026, following a brief illness. He was reunited with his loving wife, Roberta Bolling Laidlaw, who preceded him in death in 2012.

John was born on December 23, 1931, in Kansas City, Missouri, to John William Laidlaw III and Nellie Francis Irvine.

John met the love of his life, Roberta Bolling, approximately 77 years ago. The couple married on October 27, 1951, in Harrison, Arkansas, and shared 61 wonderful years of marriage before Roberta's passing in 2012.

John dedicated his professional life to education, serving as a teacher, school administrator, and principal. He began his teaching career in Parkville, Missouri, before moving with his family to Casa Grande, Arizona, in 1954. There, he taught in the nearby community of Stanfield. In 1957, the family relocated to Chandler, Arizona, where John taught at Cleveland School and later at Galveston School.

John eventually transitioned into school administration, serving as principal at Skiff School in Phoenix and at Ritter School, Nevitt School, and Fuller Elementary School in Tempe. His appointment at Fuller Elementary prompted the family's move to Tempe in 1977, where he continued to serve as principal until his retirement in 1994.

A lifelong advocate for education and learning, John pursued several advanced degrees at Arizona State University, earning a master's degree, an Education Specialist degree, and a Doctorate in Education. His commitment to education extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on the many students, teachers, and families he served throughout his career.

During his early years as a teacher, John took on various jobs to supplement his family's income. He painted houses, performed handyman work, worked as an attendant at gasoline service stations in Chandler, and even played the drums in a country-western band. His strong work ethic, resourcefulness, and willingness to do whatever was needed reflected his dedication to providing for his family.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, John enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved engaging in conversation, exploring forest trails on his ATV alongside Roberta, spending time relaxing at their cabin in Pinetop, and pursuing his interest in amateur radio as a ham radio operator.

Above all, John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life was marked by dedication to his family, a passion for education, and an appreciation for the people and experiences that brought him joy.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John William Laidlaw III and Nellie Francis Irvine, and his beloved wife and partner of 61 years, Roberta Bolling Laidlaw.

He is survived by his half-sister, Sally Laidlaw Green; his five children, Melody (Duane), Mark (Doris), Michael (Terri), Mitchell (Kris), and Michelle (Barry); as well as 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

John leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, dedication, hard work, and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Redemption Arcadia, 3330 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018.