Charles Edwin Laney

Charles Edwin Laney, 70, of Black Lick, PA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at his home.

Born on October 25, 1955, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Charles was the son of the late Earl and Margaret (Klein) Laney. He was a 1975 graduate of Blairsville High School and spent his working years in the coal mines before retiring. Charles was a proud member of the United Mine Workers of America, Local #600.

Charles had a lifelong appreciation for history and learning. He enjoyed collecting antiques and was an avid reader with a special interest in 17th- and 18th-century history, particularly the French and Indian War era. This passion led him to participate extensively in historical reenactments, where he embraced his heritage as a Scotch Highlander. He took part in numerous reenactments, including the Battle of Bushy Run and George Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware, which he and his group memorably replicated on Christmas Eve 1976 during the Bicentennial celebrations. Charles was well known at many historic sites and was a regular participant at Fort Ticonderoga, Fort Bedford, and Fort Niagara.

A gifted blacksmith, Charles was highly respected for his knowledge and craftsmanship, particularly at Williamsburg, Virginia. He shared his deep understanding of history by speaking at historical societies and events, and he was a member of a Highlander Regiment, proudly wearing full regalia during reenactments.

Above all, Charles will be remembered as a loving, kind, and devoted brother who deeply cherished his family.

He is survived by two stepchildren, William Peace of Brookville and Shawnee Pearce of Glen Campbell; five siblings, James L. Laney (Alice) of Homer City, Patricia Wilson-Cipolla (Tony) of Naples, FL, Barbara Laney of Homer City, Nancy Skultety (Terry) of Homer City, and Ruth Ann Cordell of TN; numerous nieces and nephews; and numerous great nieces and great nephews.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Debra (Peace) Laney on April 9, 2026; brothers, Earl, William, Elgin, and Butch Laney; and sisters, Phyllis Pickett, Margaret Thorn, and June Sarra.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday at 11 AM with Pastor John Manon officiating.

Interment will be in the Luther Chapel Cemetery, Coral.