Robert Joseph McLaughlin, Sr.

Lieutenant Colonel, USMC, Retired

March 22, 1935 – May 18, 2026

Robert J. McLaughlin, Sr. passed away on May 18, 2026 at his home in Sneads Ferry, leaving behind the family he loved so dearly. Our hearts are broken at the loss of this wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Unimpeded by a serious illness that had slowed his pace, he lived his final days with unwavering, steadfast determination and dedication. A man of undisputed integrity, he lived his life with his focus centered on God, Family and Country. In his 91 years, he touched the lives of countless people who are better for having had the privilege to know and love this great man.

Bob was born in Owensboro, Kentucky on March 22, 1935 to Cecil and Captola McLaughlin. He grew up in Detroit, Michigan during the Great Depression and World War II, a time that brought financial hardship to every home in America. His commendable work ethics began at the early age of 11 when he contributed to his family’s income by delivering newspapers on his bicycle, making mere cents per paper.

During his teen years, Bob became an accomplished skater, often competing on a national level. Upon graduation from high school in 1953, Bob and several of his buddies joined the United States Marine Corps and were off to Parris Island for Boot Camp. Ironically, many years later, Bob returned to Parris Island as a Drill Instructor where he enjoyed the challenge of turning young men into tough, fighting Marines. Bob passionately loved the United States Marine Corps and remained a genuine patriot until his final breath.

The 1953 “Private McLaughlin” retired in 1984 as “Lieutenant Colonel McLaughlin” but he never stopped being a proud United States Marine. His many years of service took him around the world, to include duty stations in Japan, Okinawa, Germany, California, Florida, Headquarters Marine Corps, as well as MCB, Camp Lejeune. He was the recipient of the Bronze Star in recognition of his tour of duty in the Vietnam War. Bob possessed a fierce desire to excel at every military assignment, whether it be as a scuba diver instructor or successful completion of 176 jumps out of an airplane. He was a Marine’s Marine and his allegiance to the Flag of our Country is unrivaled.

A devoted member of Catalyst Church Jacksonville for over 50 years, Bob was currently serving on the Deacon Body for the nineth time. He was also a charter member and past president of the Rotary Club of Sneads Ferry, a 60-plus year member of Stump Sound Masonic Lodge, and a Past Grand Patron of the Order of the Eastern Star.

In addition to his parents, Bob is preceded in death by a sister, Betty. Left behind to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Ann; son, Joey McLaughlin (Tammy); daughter, Rachel Ann McLaughlin (Gary); stepson, Stephen James (Lesley); brother, Charles McLaughlin; sister, Carrol Werner; grandchildren: Ashley Abode, Emily Koonce and Clayton James; great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Amelia, Abigail, Piper and Jonah; many nieces and nephews, as well as countless special friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Catalyst Church, 1985 Gum Branch Road, Jacksonville NC, with visitation with the family before the service from 9 to 10:30 AM. Interment will take place at Coastal Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children or to Catalyst Church Jacksonville.

Matthew 25:23: “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” KJV