Edisto Island, SC – Laird B. Summerlin passed away peacefully at his home on May 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a life defined by strength, loyalty, and a deep love for the people and passions that mattered most to him.
Born on June 10, 1956, to Damaris and John Summerlin, Laird grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, graduating from Amherst Regional High School in 1974. He spent much of his life building both a successful career and many lifelong friendships. As the former owner of Summerlin Floors and a dedicated real estate agent and investor, he took great pride in his work and in the relationships he built along the way. Even in “retirement”, his entrepreneurial spirit never faded. In later years, Laird fulfilled a longtime dream by relocating to Edisto Island, South Carolina, where he embraced the beauty and slower pace of coastal living. It did not take long for him to become a familiar and beloved part of the Edisto community, forming close friendships and making lasting connections wherever he went. He later split his time as a part-time resident of Fort Pierce, Florida, where he built another large circle of close friends. Known for his larger-than-life personality, he will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and unwavering loyalty. Laird found his greatest joy outdoors-fishing at sunrise, participating in many tournaments, embarking on memorable adventures aboard his beloved boat, the Crazy Horse, hunting in the quiet woods of Montana and Alabama, working on his cars, and enjoying the laid-back spirit of island life. He lived authentically and unapologetically, often sporting his signature camo Crocs, Calcutta lid, and sunglasses; details that perfectly captured his unique style and easygoing nature. Above all else, Laird was devoted to “his people.”
He is survived by his loving and devoted partner, Allison Hyatt; his son, Blake Summerlin; his much-loved stepdaughter, Lori Zumbruski; his beloved grandchildren, Jaiden and Noel Summerlin, Molly and McKenna Zumbruski and Kyle Costa as well as Marissa Coyle, his great grandson Myles Costa, his former daughter-in-law. He is also survived by his sister, Piper Summerlin and his nephew, St. John Gerrity of Santa Barbara, CA; and many dear friends and extended family members who will continue to carry his memory forward.
Laird was predeceased by his parents, Damaris and John Summerlin, and his stepdaughter, Erin Summerlin. Laird will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his strength, his spirit, and the lasting impact he made on all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
A celebration of Laird’s life will be held from 4-7 on June 10, 2026 at The Boathouse, 1 Alford Street, South Hadley Massachusetts. Other celebrations will be held at Edisto, South Carolina and Fort Pierce, Florida and will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndonfuneralhome.com.
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