ISSY-LES-MOULINEAUX, France--Laurence Lafont, artistic director of the Lafont eyewear company, died last month at the age of 62.

Parisian-born, Lafont received a graphic arts degree in England and had a professional career that included textiles, home furnishings and table wear, as well as the eyewear business, which she was introduced to in the 1970’s when she married Philippe Lafont, the grandson of the founder of the Lafont boutiques in Paris. In 2001, she devoted herself exclusively to the eyewear industry.

Laurence Lafont

She designed the Lafont collections, which are sold in over 40 countries, for more than 30 years. Lafont was passionate about her work. Described as indefatigable and a perfectionist by those closest to her, she will be remembered for the originality, authenticity and remarkable details of all her creations, according to the family.

In 1996, her son Thomas joined her in the creation of the Lafont collections; he will now be in charge of the design studio.

“She was iconic to us,” said Ray Khalil, president of Lafont. “Her personal touch meant a lot to us. She has had a team of designers for the last six years, including her son, that have been taking over the reigns. She was passing the baton to her son. Her family is mourning their personal loss, as is the whole company, but we are carrying on determined and united.”

The family is accepting condolences at [email protected]. ■