Obituary of Brian Laing

Brian J. Laing, 67

Brian James Laing, 67, of Verona, NJ, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, leaving behind a family and many friends who loved him deeply. He was a retired Verona Police Sergeant and long-time Clifton business owner.

Brian Laing was born in Orange, NJ to Bernice (Byrne) and Francis Laing on October 22, 1958. He grew up in West Orange, attended Mountain High School and graduated in 1976. He went on to work in the patrol division for the Verona Police Department and was promoted to Sergeant in 2005. He was an active member of PBA Local 72 and served in many positions including State Delegate with distinction. Over the years, Brian also enjoyed playing softball on numerous PBA teams.

He is survived by his two daughters, Michelle and Nicole; his beloved granddaughter, Audriana, age 6, who he adored and who adored him right back; and his newborn grandson, Roman, just one week old, whom he was so looking forward to meeting.

He is predeceased by his mother, Bernice Laing (Byrne), and father, Francis Laing, his older brother, Kevin Laing, as well as his brother-in-law, Kenneth Blaes. He is also survived by his sister, Donna Blaes, his nephews, Michael and Joseph, and his ex-wife, Donna D’Arcangelo.

After a dedicated career with the Verona Police Department for 25 years, Brian went on to become the owner of the Shamrock Inn and Emerald Corner in Clifton. He spent the last several years enjoying retirement before selling, embracing a slower pace of life. He truly cherished his retirement years, spending time with family and doing the things that brought him joy. He loved traveling in his RV, was an avid golfer, a passionate Green Bay Packers, Notre Dame, and Boston Red Sox fan, and a NASCAR enthusiast.

He will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family, especially his grandchildren. He touched countless lives with his words of inspiration and guidance and will be deeply missed by many.

Funeral service will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes in West Orange on February 12, 2026 at 10:00am. Burial will follow at Gates of Heaven. Visitation will be at Dangler Funeral Home in West Orange on February 11, 2026 from 4:00pm-8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Boys and Girls Club of America.