REEDVILLE—Francisco A. Laguna, 64, passed away at home in Reedville on August 19, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. His husband, Stuart M. Perkins, was by his side.
Born April 4, 1962, in Bogota, Colombia, Francisco moved with his parents to New York City as a young boy. He spoke often of after-school adventures with friends in Central Park, which he considered his own back yard. Growing up in Manhattan helped shape his love of diversity, adventure and delight in the finer things in life. He was cosmopolitan, boisterous and generous to a fault. When Francisco entered a room people were happier for it. No one will forget his booming laugh—or his love of a proper Chardonnay.
Following an undergraduate education at UC Berkeley, he attended the University of Arizona Law School and spent a visiting year at Georgetown University Law Center to move on to become a major asset to subsequent firms and clients. Always ambitious, drawing on deep connections in the United States and abroad, he later started his own firm focusing on international commercial law. Fluent in several languages, he spoke at conferences all over the world on government regulations regarding scientific advancements in food production and other prevailing regulatory issues.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jose Laguna.
Francisco is survived by his loving husband, Stuart M. Perkins. Together for 13 years and married for seven, their relationship was defined by limitless love and respect for each other, a mutual appreciation of life and awareness that a sense of humor is everything. They enjoyed laughing with, and at, each other daily. From their first day together until their last, they treasured their relationship and unwavering devotion to one another.
He is also survived by his mother, Joan Laguna; and brother, Alvaro Laguna.
Francisco leaves behind an incredible number of close friends and extended family who already miss him greatly. Although many live in other states or countries, Francisco made it a point to keep track of birthdays, anniversaries and other special dates, never failing to call or write. He was godfather to several children of friends and family. He never met a stranger and loved getting to know people. His openness and warmth enabled him to make close connections easily and he was fiercely loyal and protective of those he loved.
He was a regular donor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as well as many other charities, especially those focusing on animal welfare.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Francisco. We plan to hold a celebration of life to honor him. Details will be shared once a date and location are chosen. Thank you for your love and support.
Currie Funeral Home LLC of Kilmarnock handled the arrangements.
