Elmer Ross Laird, 93, of Pensacola, FL, passed away on April 18, 2016.

Mr. Laird was born on May 1, 1922 in Escambia County, FL and was raised in the Warrington area. He was one of 5 boys and no sisters. He went to high school and architectural-drafting trade school.

Mr. Laird was a Navy Seabee from 1942-1945. He was a Naval Air Station civilian employee/draftsman until approximately 1956 when he opened Laird Hardware on 12th Avenue in Pensacola, until it closed in 1966. Elmer went to work with Carlton Noblin Architects where he worked for the next 20 years until he retired.

Elmer loved to play golf, fish, spend time with family and became an expert wine-maker. Elmer and Laura loved dancing and were past members of the Civil Airs.

Mr. Laird is preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Genevieve Bell Laird and his four brothers, James, William, Robert and Louis Laird.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Laura Watson Laird; his daughter, Susan Karl; one son, John E. Laird; two grandchildren, Kristopher R. Karl and Amy Karl Simpler (Jeffrey) and two great grandchildren, Daniel Laird Simpler and McKenzie Bird Simpler.

Visitation will begin at 2:30 pm followed by a Memorial Service at 3:30pm Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Dr. Glenn Rohrer officiating.

Elmer loved animals, so in lieu of flowers, memorial contribution may be made to an animal welfare/rescue agency of your choice.

Special Thanks to the caring nurses and doctors at West Florida Hospital, 4th floor north and the Life Care Center of Pensacola.