Laurence P. Huntley

Dr Laurence Huntley, a leader, a gentleman, scholar and loving husband, age 80, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Norma Huntley; his loving children, Lisa (Stan) Haley and James (Aleksandra) Huntley; his cherished grandchildren, Alisia Conway and Alana Purham; and his dear siblings, Victor Huntley and Norma Mohammed. Laurence was preceded in death by his parents, James Sanderson Huntley and Emelda Huntley; his sisters, Jean Huntley, Victoria Huntley, Lucille Huntley-Tucker, and Leila Huntley; and his brother, George “Bert” Huntley. Born in Arima, Trinidad, he went on to become a proud educator. Laurence taught Spanish at Foreman High School in Chicago until his retirement in 2010. Known for his gift of gab, he was a natural storyteller and gifted motivational speaker. In 2013, he published his book, *True Success by Choice, Not by Chance, Without Excuses: Don't Forget God*, sharing his insights on perseverance, faith, and achievement. Laurence had a remarkable journey in education. Despite never completing high school, he earned two associate degrees and a bachelor's degree from the University of the Virgin Islands. He went on to complete a Master's in Hospitality and Tourism at the University of Wisconsin and a Doctorate in Industrial Vocational Technology Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stout (Menomonie). He often proudly pointed out this accomplishment as proof that determination could overcome any obstacle. In his younger years, he excelled as a track star in college and later developed a passion for collecting antiques. Laurence created the first Jambola Festival while working as Assistant Director of Tourism in St Croix, US Virgin Islands which attracted 10,000 residents and visitors. He was the recipient of the Leadership of the Year Award by the late Governor, Juan Luis, for restoring tourism back in St Croix as a result of the Fountain Valley massacre. He also served as a member of the Village of South Holland Commission, board member of South Holland School District 151 and member of the City of Chicago Human Relations Commission. His motto was in order for anyone to achieve their goals in life you must have faith, repetition, persistence and imagination. Laurence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him for his warmth, wisdom, and inspiring spirit. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Skyline Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 24800 S. Governors Hwy., Monee, IL. Private inurnment will follow at Skyline Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lightway Hospice Center in Joliet, IL (www.lightways.org) For more information, please call Skyline Funeral Home 708-534-8256.