Justin Curtis Laverty, age 29, of Stratford passed away suddenly on July 11, 2024. Justin is the loving son of Janet Laverty, Brent Barker (Roxanne), step father Allen Lichty (Heather). Brother of Morgan Lichty, Lucas Barat, Aubrey Vail, Robbie Barker, Brandon Barker, Sadie Barker, Aaron Lichty. Grandson of Bernie and Linda Laverty, Janice Barker, Norman and Clara Lichty. Nephew to Laura Laverty (Darren), Kevin Laverty (Kalynn), Jamie Laverty (Jenine), Suzanne Duguay (David), Sean Laverty, Nathan Barker (Stefan), James Lichty (Cathy), Roger Lichty. Cousin of MacKenzie Laverty (Ashley), Nick Laverty, Grace Laverty, Lincoln Laverty, Jack Laverty, Anne Laverty, Austin Lichty, Jacob Lichty and Brayden Lichty. Also remembered by many great aunts and uncles.
Predeceased by grandfather Terry Barker and cousin Andrew Laverty.
Justin spent most of his youth growing up in Walkerton, Ontario where he was very involved in soccer and track and field. He had a love of soccer and would often be found outside kicking a soccer ball around, learning new moves and replicating his favourite player Ronaldinho. He had a love of music and could often be heard singing which he did from a very young age. He had an incredible ability to retain song lyrics and melodies and spent every second he was in a car belting out whatever song came on the radio. From a young age he took on the role of protector of his mom and his young brothers. He was a fierce defender of those he held dear. Justin had an infectious laugh, a mischievous sense of humour and is fondly remembered by his friends and family as being generous with his heart, always being there to listen and offer help. In Grade 12 Justin moved back to Stratford with his family where he graduated high school and went on to Conestoga college where he earned his diploma in Mechanical Techniques – Plumbing.
In 2019 Justin’s mental health began to deteriorate and he was eventually diagnosed with Schizophrenia disorder. From a young age Justin intended to live his life on his terms, not letting anyone decide life for him. As such Justin struggled to come to terms with his disorder. Despite his battles with his disorder and treatment he maintained his deep love and concern for his family, especially his siblings. He will be forever missed.
Visitation for friends and family will be held at the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford on Thursday, July 18, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Church, 96 Huron Street, Stratford on Friday, July 19, at 11 a.m. Interment at Avondale Cemetery. Memorial donations in Justins memory may be made to United Way Huron Perth or Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth. www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
