Dean McLaughlin's Obituary
Wilbur “Dean” McLaughlin lived a consistent testimony for Christ all the way through the Lord calling him home on April 6, 2021. He was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He had a strong Christian work ethic, which he instilled in his family. He was a true churchman --- taking leadership roles at his beloved Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Dallas and Calvary Baptist Church in Mesquite. In all his endeavors, his kindness and beautiful smile characterized the way he treated others. He was a man of great faith, never wavering in his commitment to his Lord. Whenever asked for counsel, he would simply say, “Let’s take it to the Lord in Prayer.”
Dean McLaughlin was born August 19, 1929 in Yantis, Texas (Hopkins County) to John and Eva Thornhill McLaughlin. He graduated from high school in Yantis and soon thereafter began a long, distinguished career with PPG Industries for 40 years.
In 1950, Dean met his life-long sweetheart when his mother introduced him to a young, attractive co-worker that she thought would be a perfect mate for him. Dean and Gladys Evelyn Magers married shortly thereafter and were married for over 70 years when the Lord called Dean to his heavenly home.
Worshipping the Lord and ministering in his church were a big part of Dean’s life. He epitomized the term “working behind the scenes”. Dean would perform many tasks during Sunday School and worship service such as helping the ladies in the office, picking up the Sunday School boxes, and adjusting the temperature so that everyone else could enjoy the teaching, preaching, and fellowship.
Dad and mom enjoyed spending time with their family and church friends. Some of their fondest memories came from their bus trips to the Ozarks with their church friends to see the shows in Branson, MO and gatherings with their Young at Heart group. Their other source of great joy came from their family. Whether they were spending time with family in Mesquite or traveling to Michigan, the highlight of their lives was the memories of seeing their family grow.
Dean is survived by his wife Gladys Evelyn McLaughlin; children Wayne, Billy, and Larry and wife Judy, and daughter-in-law Neva; grandchildren Angie and Jacque McLaughlin, Brett and wife Leigh McLaughlin, Shannon and husband Lester Stewart, Matt and wife Dana McLaughlin, Jon and wife Rachel McLaughlin, Michael and wife Kelly McLaughlin, and Jason and wife Sara McLaughlin, and great-grandchildren Preston, Payton, Grason, Dean, Robbie, Addie, Nathan, Maddie, Noah and wife Sydney, Jonah, Hayden, Colby, Sawyer, Baylee, Payton, Royce, Gabe, Grace, Gwyn, Liam, and Hazel. Dean was preceded in death by son Roy; brothers James, Mitchell, and Kenneth McLaughlin; and sister Bernice Kirkey.
To view the service by live stream please use the following link:http://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/52022
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