WEST UNION – The West Union Lion’s Club has announced the selection of John T. and Elaine Lafferty, of West Union, as the Grand Marshals for the annual Independence Day Parade in West Union.
“Throughout their careers, the Laffertys have generously contributed to the community and we are pleased to recognize these outstanding citizens and honor their noteworthy accomplishments,” said Lion’s Club President- designate Stephen Caraway.
This year, the West Union Lion’s Club will have the parade on Saturday, July 4. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. with line-up beginning at 9 a.m.
“We encourage businesses and civic groups to participate with an entry into the parade, or show your support by attending one of West Union’s longest running traditions,” said Caraway.
The Lion’s Club will again co-sponsor the Annual Freedom Festival with a fireworks display at the Adams County Fairgrounds on July 4th. More details will be forthcoming. If you have questions about the parade, call Stephen Caraway at 937-779-8376.
The Laffertys, graduated in West Union’s class of 1959, and then continued their education at The Ohio State University. In 1962, John T. graduated from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science and became a licensed funeral director, continuing in the Lafferty family business, first with his father and later with his sons.
After they were married in 1963, Elaine taught Art and English at Peebles and West Union before working with John T. at he funeral home.
They are parents to John R., Jayson, and Lizabeth; in-laws to Dane Cark and Angie Lafferty; and grandparents to Alexandria, Leevi, and Landon.
They are members of the West Union Presbyterian Church and have served their community through the years by participating in clubs and organizations. Mr. Lafferty is a former member of the West Union Lion’s Club and a former director of the National Bank of Adams County. Mrs. Lafferty has been active in the West Union Women’s Club, the Adams County Arts Council and the Friends of the West Union Library. They have been supporters of the Adams County Junior Fair and many school-related activities, and are life members of the Adams County Historical Society.
In 1994, John T. and Elaine established the William Lafferty Memorial Funeral and Carriage Collection to preserve the heritage of their family business. It is open to the public on the Fourth of July from noon until 2 p.m. and through the year by appointment.
