James McLaughlin's Obituary
James “Seamus” Henry McLaughlin,age 79, passed away August 7, 2009 at his home after suffering a long illness. James was born in Providence, RI to Margaret Anna Drumm and Archibald Charles McLaughlin. He graduated from Providence College in 1953 with a BA in Economics. He later married Helen Theresa Sullivan who passed in 1998 and he is survived by their five children: son, Kevin McLaughlin his wife Terry, Charlotte, NC; son, Stephen McLaughlin and his wife Kathy of Chesapeake, VA; daughter, Maureen Trullinger and her husband Jim of Brenham, TX; son, Matthew McLaughlin and his wife Lynn of Haymarket, VA; and daughter, Patricia Petrillo and her husband Chris Haymarket, VA. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jonathan, Michael, Brandon, Bethany, Erika, Marley, CJ and Tess.
He enlisted in the US Navy in 1948 and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. Following an honorable discharge in 1963, he moved his family to the Northern Virginia area. James was actively involved for many years with the Skyline Football Officials Association in the greater Manassas area. He was also involved with the Knights of Columbus and is a lifetime member. Post his computer analysis career, James pursued an interest in acting, directing and producing documentaries regarding the Civil War, “The Irish Brigade Monument Project” and many other historical events including “Brendan The Navigator.” He was deeply involved on the design committee for the construction of The Irish Brigade Monument located at Antietam, MD. He was a guest conductor for the National Symphony Orchestra. He was an active member of the historical preservation organization called the Victorian Society. Television and film credits include parts in “Homicide,” “Forest Gump,” “Enemy of the State,” “Eraser” and others.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 16, 2009 from 4:00-6:00 pm at Found and Sons Lee Funeral Chapel, 8521 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20109. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, August 17, 2009 at 10:00 am at All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas followed by interment at Quantico National Cemetery at 12:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in regards to the Veteran's Administration.
Online condolences may be made to James's family at www.foundandsons.com
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?