SHS mourns loss of student: Remembering Kenneth Laughlin

Art teacher Makayla Schafer told The Salem News that although she was in her third year of teaching, she had watched Laughlin’s journey from Art I to Art IV. In an official statement from the art department, Schafer showcased Laughlin’s hard work and talent for the arts.

“The Salem R-80 Art Department would like to echo the sentiments of the Salem R-80 High School: It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news of the passing of Kenneth Laughlin. Kenneth was a member of Salem High School and the Salem R-80 Art Department as well as the SHS Art Club. As a senior, Kenneth had worked his way up to the Art IV class and had just finished an amazing white charcoal piece. It is such a gift to watch students grow from Art I to Art IV and Kenneth was no exception. His growth amazed us on a daily basis and his work was a direct reflection of his continued success. To say we were proud of Kenneth is an understatement, but it is one we let him know often. We can’t find the right words (and we probably never will) to express our grief and the weight of this loss, but we can continue to honor Kenneth. We are so lucky to have known Kenneth and experience all of his positive attributes: positivity, humor, kindness, and passion to name a few. We can still hear him cracking a joke and laughing. We will never forget. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kenneth’s family and friends during this difficult time. Their grief is something no words can ease.”

The statement concludes by announcing the memorial service, which saw Laughlin’s parking space filled with flowers, cards, notes, and more—In honor of Laughlin’s life and impact on those around him.

“Let us come together as a strong, supportive school community to honor Kenneth,” the announcement concludes.

Schafer told The Salem News that she had a personal appreciation for Laughlin—not only his artistic skill, but his personality.

“After all these years of having Kenneth in class, we built a good relationship. His best art pieces always included a car or something like it because his passion elevated his work,” she said. “He was an amazing artist, but an even better person. He was so funny, respectful, and positive.”

Schafer said the loss has been difficult to understand.

“It’s surreal and I still haven’t wrapped my mind around it. I’m waiting to get back from break and laugh at one of his jokes again,” she said.

On Monday morning, a crowd gathered around Laughlin’s parking space at the SHS lot. Standing in virtual silence in the cold morning air, friends, family, students, and teachers reflected on Laughlin’s life. Flowers and artwork featuring Laughlin were placed at his Mustang, which was parked in his space, and those who were close to Laughlin shared hugs and comforted one another.