Elmer LaVaughn Lackey, 86, began the next phase of his life on Saturday, February 1st, 2020. A warrior his entire life, he faced his day of transition with the faith and fidelity to duty he exemplified to all who knew and loved him. Born June 11th, 1933 during the great depression, his parents, O.J. and Lorene Lackey, relocated many times with their only child seeking employment. Finally settling in Rome Ga. During the early days of WWII. LaVaughn, as he was known at the time, graduated from Rome High School in 1952 with honors.
When his nation called, he answered and, against family wishes, served in Korea, earning a honorable discharge after twenty-two months of service. When he returned home, he was Elmer, a man prepared to meet the challenges of life. Accepting employment with Lockheed aircraft alongside his dad, the family relocated to Marietta where a ruptured appendix led him to meet his soul-mate and future wife, Elizabeth Brooksher. He physically honored his wedding vows to her until the epilepsy, with which she was afflicted, transitioned her on Elmer’s birthday in 1988. He remains faithful to her even now. In 1994, Elmer answered a higher calling and became a volunteer working with youth of the church he attended. When told he could not have vacation time to go with his “kids” to Jamaica on a mission trip, he chose to retire from Lockheed after 42 years of employment. He received the “Barnabas Award” for his service to the children and their ministers.
Always identifying himself as a “Roman”, Elmer returned to his beloved Rome in 2010, joining the congregation of West Rome Baptist Church, continuing to work with his “kids” until the failing health of his mortal body forced him to step aside. He passes his torch of unconditional love to an only child and numerous cousins nationwide, including Elizabeth Otts of Rome. A memorial service will be held at the West Rome Baptist Church at 1pm, Saturday February 8th, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations to the West Rome Baptist Church Youth Missions fund would be acceptable. Condolence can be left for the family at www.georgiafuneralcare.com
