Celebrating the life of
Dolores Jean "Dea" McLaughlin
June 19, 1929 - January 12, 2017
Dolores Jean McLaughlin
Dolores Jean McLaughlin, 87, died on January 12, 2017 at Spanish Oaks Retreat, in Savannah, Georgia, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Dea, the only child of Roy and Mildred Ludy, was born in Dayton, Ohio on June 19, 1929. She spent most of her childhood in Columbus, Ohio. As a young adult she moved to Detroit, Michigan where she met the love of her life, Joe McLaughlin. They were married in 1948 and their loving marriage of 66 years was an inspiration to all of their family.
Dea enjoyed her work as a dental assistant but she left that employment to devote herself to her husband and three children. She was a devout Catholic, loving wife and mother, attentive grandmother, wonderful homemaker and seamstress. She most enjoyed spending time with her family. She and Joe lived in Livonia, Michigan until 1970 when they moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. It was there, after their children were grown, that they later shared in a successful real estate career. When Joe became disabled Dea’s love and devotion shown forth in her many years of selfless care of him. Joe passed away in 2014.
Dea is survived by her children: Karen Wilson (David), Michael McLaughlin (Sherry), Jill Welling (Paul); her grandchildren: Kevin Wilson, Meghan Diamon, Michael McLaughlin Jr., Callie McLaughlin, Patrick McLaughlin, Jared Day and Julia Welling; and her great grandchildren: Solara McLaughlin, Peyton McLaughlin, Anna Wilson, Benjamin Wilson and Claire Diamon.
A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Chapel, Isle of Hope, Savannah, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests remembrances be made in her memory to: Alzheimer’s Association, Coastal Georgia Regional Office, 201 Television Circle, Savannah, GA 31406.
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
I have many fond childhood memories of Mrs. McLaughlin,Dea,as well as the McLaughlin family. I am happy in the thoughts that Dea was surrounded by her loving family and will be remembered and celebrated by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be deeply missed. Love to you all… Denise and Van Quarles and family.
- Denise M Quarles, Punta Gorda, Florida
Dear Jill and family/ies. I enjoyed reading about your mom and family in her Obituary. I'm sorry I never met her, but I pray everyone takes comfort in knowing she is with our Blessed Mother and Jesus; now in heaven and in eternal peace and comfort. My love and condolences to all of you. Most Sincerely, Katie Peterson
- Katie Peterson, Pompano Beach, FL
I have many fond childhood memories of Mrs. McLaughlin,Dea,as well as the McLaughlin family. I am happy in the thoughts that Dea was surrounded by her loving family and will be remembered and celebrated by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be deeply missed. Love to you all… Denise and Van Quarles and family.
- Denise M Quarles, Punta Gorda, Florida
Dear Jill and family/ies. I enjoyed reading about your mom and family in her Obituary. I'm sorry I never met her, but I pray everyone takes comfort in knowing she is with our Blessed Mother and Jesus; now in heaven and in eternal peace and comfort. My love and condolences to all of you. Most Sincerely, Katie Peterson
- Katie Peterson, Pompano Beach, FL
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
