Donald "Pap" Laws

Donald “Pap” Laws, 97, died peacefully at home in Washington, on January 27, 2019. He was born on November 13, 1921, in Washington, a son of the late Robert Laws and Margaret Jane Laws. He attended Washington High School, where he played football, and was on the wrestling and track teams. Mr. Laws was a Christian man, and was a member of the Edwin Scott Linton Post 175 of the American Legion. A World War II veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corp, he served as a Staff Sergeant, Tail Gunner on a B24 Airplane.  For his service, after flying 51 missions, he was awarded eight Battle Star Awards, two Air Medals, and he received a letter of commendation from the General in charge of the Fifth Air Force. Mr. Laws worked for Jessop Steel, where he retired following 43 years on the job. He was the founding member of the Jessop Boat Club and the Golden Pheasant Sportsman’s Club.  His hobbies included gardening, bowling, dartball and golf. His wife, Alene Smith Laws, died on April 16. 2014. Surviving are his daughter, who was also his caregiver, Carolyn Kelley, of Washington; a son, Donald A. (Patricia) Laws, of Clarksville; seven grandchildren; four step grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and nine great-great grandchildren. Deceased is a son, Bud (Carolyn) Laws; and ten siblings, Harold, Carl, Charles, Mary Brice, Thomas, Norman, Elsie McCracken, George “Ike”, Joseph and Robert.  He was the last of his immediate family. At the request of the deceased, all services are private.  Military Rites will be accorded graveside. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Ave., Washington, PA.