Laughlin is survived by one sister, three children, five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Laughlin became a revered figure who would greet staff and guests while strolling through the hotel and casino, and a statue of the man stands at the north end of Casino Drive. Many of his employees were Arizona residents.
In 1991, he donated land and the funds for Laughlin/Bullhead City International Airport. In 1986, Laughlin bankrolled the construction of the Laughlin Bridge connecting Nevada and Arizona. His influence on the region only grew from there. It was the inspector who suggested the proprietor’s surname, according to the Riverside Resort’s website. Postal Service inspector told the casino owner the outpost needed a name for mail service. It was two years later that the area became Laughlin. Unforgettable: These famous people died in 2023
