Dr. Paul A. Laughlin

Dr. Paul Alan Laughlin, 80, of Upper Arlington, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on April 22, 2026. He was a cherished husband, father, stepfather, grandfather to five grandchildren, and friend to many. He is survived by his wife, Donna; his son, Drew (Jess) Laughlin; his stepdaughter, Kaitlyn (Alex) Hasebrook; his stepson, Korey (Abby Wimbiscus Black) Black; and five grandchildren (Thomas, Atty, Kameron, Christopher, and Flora).

Paul was born on March 9,1946, in Cincinnati, to the late Franklin and Edna (Wilson) Laughlin. After graduating from Covington High School in 1964 as class valedictorian, Paul majored in Classics at the University of Cincinnati, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa. At Emory University (Atlanta), Paul was a Danforth Fellow, earning a Ph.D. in Historical Theology and Church History, and teaching at Emory's Candler School of Theology. Paul also taught at Northern Kentucky University while serving as pastor of Salem Methodist Church in Newport, Kentucky. Then, Paul joined the faculty of Otterbein University (Westerville), where he taught in the Religion and Philosophy department for 33 years. Paul’s gift with languages was extraordinary, including proficiency in Latin, Greek, German, and French.

A diligent and gifted student, Paul authored the book "Getting Oriented" and co-authored "Remedial Christianity", in addition to writing many articles for the Fourth R, a Westar bi-monthly magazine. His clergy friend, Reverend Henry Galganowicz, said of Paul: "He showed how to redefine Christianity, if that's what someone was interested in doing, or, one could go directly beyond it, (take the pathless path), to the Source of Light and Love. As an academic, he was ahead of his time."

Beyond academia, Paul’s passion was music. He started playing piano at age four, and played piano and organ in church from middle school onward. Paul applied his musical talents in school jazz and concert bands, founding the Nutones during high school and college. Later, as a graduate student, seminarian and professor, Paul founded the Liturgical Jazz Arts Group. Off campus, he entertained as the Paul Alan Trio, often performing with his son, Drew, at local gigs. He also inspired his stepson, Korey Black, who has since become a talented educator and musician due to Paul’s steadfast support. Paul’s spirit lives on in these two young men.

Paul was also a Ham Radio hobbyist. He built his first amateur radio at a young age, earned his Extra Class license, and was well known as N8ZQ and KC8ZQ. He will be missed by many local Ham Radio operators, especially his very good friend, Pete Shapter, N3STG.

Paul’s most valuable contribution to others was as a true giver of his time, his talents, and his money to those who needed it most. “Out with the old to make room for the new!” was his phrase when leaving a generous tip at a restaurant or giving a hand-up to someone in need.

He gave so much to his wife, including a love that lasts forever and an adoration that will live for now and evermore. "That’s All"….(arranged and performed by Paul)

A celebration of Paul’s life on a future date will honor his love of music. A favorite photo of Paul from his retirement passion project (his legacy CDs) is included here. We also invite you to share your own photos and memories of Paul in the online guestbook to help us celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Paul’s memory to the Capital City Hospice for their unwavering love and support during Paul’s final months. You may also consider contributing to Paul’s legacy through an upcoming fund related to his passion for the arts (details to follow).

Lastly, thanks to all the wonderful caregivers and longtime friends who have supported Paul, his wife, Donna, and their family through this 8-year medical journey.

Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences. Funeral arrangements entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST.