James Francis McLaughlin
November 15, 1926 ~ January 28, 2014
Services:
A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 12:00 PM in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery Bushwood, MD with Father Charles Cortinovis officiating.
Visitation:
The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 6, 2014 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Leonardtown, MD.
James Francis McLaughlin (Jim) passed away peacefully at NUMC hospital in East Meadow NY, on Monday Jan 28, 2014 holding the hand of his beloved wife of 56 years, Mary Pilkerton of Clements, MD. Jim was born November 15, 1926 in Valley Stream, NY. He was the son of Archibald J. and Mary Dryer McLaughlin, and was preceded in death by his parents, his five brothers, and his son Theodore W. Long (Ted).
He was a veteran of World War II, in which he served as a Naval Aviator and was stationed at Pax River NAS. After separation from the Navy, he and Mary resided in East Meadow on Long Island, NY for 55 years.
Jim leaves behind his wife Mary, and his daughter, Bertie Jean Long Schumacher (Rick), a daughter in-law Tammy Long, as well as six grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Jim was an avid bowler, and when his health declined, he remained the secretary of his leagues. He was a puppy walker and proudly raised 9 guide dogs for the blind, one of which is still in service.
Jim loved raising his guide dogs, traveling, visiting southern MD, photography, and computers.
He retired from Sperry Gyroscope Company after 35 years in 1986. He held a Master’s degree from Adelphi University and a Bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University in Electrical Engineering.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 6, 2014 from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home Leonardtown, MD. A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 12:00 PM in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery Bushwood, MD with Father Charles Cortinovis officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to: Guide Dog Foundation For the Blind, Inc.
371 E. Main St. (Jericho Tpk) Smithtown, NY 11787-9897.
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“Aunt Mary, Crystal and I are so sorry to hear about Uncle Jim’s passing. He was always very kind and generous. I will always remember the trips up to your house with fond memories. We will keep you in our prayers. Love John, Crystal, Gabrielle and Danielle Novak”
“Aunt Mary, Uncle Jim was a wonderful great uncle and we have fond memories of him. He and Larry had a special connection and he will be greatly missed. Our love to you and your loved ones. Family is a blessing and we are blessed be a part of your family. Love, Larry, Frannie and Alex”
“Mary/Jean, our deepest sympathy for your loss. We know Jim lived a long happy life and he will be missed. Taken comfort in the arms and hearts of your family and friends.”
“Uncle Jim was a great man, well respected in his community and active in his church. We will miss him greatly! Our prayers go out to Aunt Mary and all the family! May you find peace and comfort in knowing he is with the great creator in heaven. We love you!”
“Aunt Mary and Jeannie, we are sorry about Jim’s passing. His legacy is an inspiration to us. We will be making a donation to honor Jim’s achievements to the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind. We regret not knowing him personally. May you find peace and comfort in your faith and memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both. “
“Aunt Mary, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your extended family on this tragic day. Uncle Jim was loved tremendously by Marianne and she talked about him and you and the times she spent visiting you with her Dad and Mom. Praying that God helps you heal the heartache you have now on the loss of the love of your life. Take solace that now he walks with God and all his brothers and family who passed before him. Patrick, Michael and I will keep in touch. We all wish we could be there. We love you and will miss Uncle Jim. Love Greg and Patrick Appeldorn and Michael Novak. “
“Mary, We are so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Our prayers and symathy go out to all. May he rest in peace.”
“Jean and Mrs. McLaughlin. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of great sadness and loss. “