01/02/2026
John Loran
10 January 1959 – 27 January 2026
Aged 67 years
John Loran was born on 10 January 1959 to his loving parents John and Catherine. To the people who loved him, he was known by many names — John, Jolly, and Sophie — each reflecting a different part of who he was.
As the eldest of six Loran children, John grew up in a lively and bustling household. His early years were spent in the Townhead area before the family later moved to Dundyvan. Family bonds were always important to John, and he shared a particularly close relationship with his younger brother Eck, a friendship that remained strong throughout his life.
John worked hard from a young age. He began as a paper boy and went on to enjoy a varied working life that included time as an apprentice butcher, work in the building industry with Cruden and Millers Construction, and many years with Monklands District Council. Later, he moved into agency driving before finishing his working life at Pegasus Express, where he worked alongside his daughter Caroline. He was known as a dependable and dedicated worker, but despite his strong work ethic, John always made it clear that his job was never the centre of his world.
That place was firmly reserved for his family.
It was at a party in Calderbank in 1978 that John met the love of his life, Sarah McHugh, affectionately known as Sadie. They began dating in September 1979, and their romance was sealed on 5 February 1983 when they were married in St Monica’s R.C. Church, beginning a devoted partnership that would last a lifetime. Through this marriage, John became a cherished son‑in‑law to the late Ellen and Hugh McHugh, a much‑loved brother‑in‑law to John, Annmarie, Peter, Denise, Kate, Fiona and Jim, and a valued member of the wider McHugh and Quinn families.
Above all else, John was a proud and loving father. His children were his greatest achievement and his greatest joy. He leaves behind his beloved daughters Caroline, Johan, Michelle, Vicky, and Kelly, his son Paul, and Heather, who—though his niece—was always regarded by John as his sixth daughter. He was also a much‑loved father‑in‑law to Andy, and held Lauren, Paul’s partner, in the same warm regard as family.
In more recent years, John discovered a new and special happiness in becoming a grandad. His grandchildren Aaron, Ruby, and Hayley brought him endless pride and laughter, and he treasured every moment spent with them.
John was also a Friend to many especially Moyra, Fay and Shuggie.
Outside of family life, John had many passions. He was a lifelong Celtic supporter, a talented darts player, and a great lover of Rod Stewart’s music, which could lift his spirits, fill a room with energy, and was the soundtrack to some of his happiest memories. He also loved to travel and treasured every chance to enjoy the sun and explore new places. Over the years he holidayed with his friends Stella and Paul, and later with his brother‑in‑law Peter and sister‑in‑law Fiona, visiting places like Australia, Thailand, Egypt, and Turkey and not to forget his many Caravan holidays — trips that gave him memories he held dear.
John was many things to many people: a son, husband, father, father-in-law, grandad, brother, brother-in-law, cousin, uncle, colleague, neighbour, and loyal friend. But above all, he was a kind, generous, fun-loving man who filled the lives of others with laughter and love.
His passing leaves a sadness that words cannot fully express, but the memories he created will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him.
Loved always and missed forever.
Funeral Details
The Rosary will be recited at John’s family home at 68 Woodhall Place on Saturday 7th February and Sunday 8th February at 6:00pm, to which all are welcome.
John’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 10th February 2026. The cortege will depart from his home at approximately 9:20am, travelling to St James’ R.C. Church, where he will be received at 9:45am, followed by a Requiem Mass.
Thereafter, a committal ceremony will take place at Coltswood Cemetery.
Following the service, the family warmly invite all to return with them to the Bank Social Club for a further opportunity to remember and celebrate the life of John Loran.
The family wishes to say that there is no expectation when it comes to flowers. Anyone who would like to send flowers to the chapel is very welcome to do so, but for those who prefer, a donation in John’s name to the Pseudomyxoma Survivor charity would be equally appreciated. Both gestures are received with gratitude and kindness.
