Photo courtesy of Byles Memorial Home - New London
New London, Connecticut
Oct 24, 1944 – Nov 6, 2025
Sandra Lee McLaughlin, 81 of Dunedin Florida formerly of Groton, died Thursday November 6, 2025, at Fairview in Groton.
Sandra was born October 24, 1944, in New London, Connecticut to Elliott Echols and Mary Lucille Gingras Echols. She married James A. McLaughlin; he preceded her in death.
Sandra worked as a secretary at the Federal Credit Union.
During her childhood in Groton, CT, Sandra was always surrounded by her family. After moving to Florida she enjoyed her lengthy trips back to Connecticut to be with family and lifelong friends who loved her very much.
She is survived by her loving sister, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10AM Wednesday November 12, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 56 Sacred Heart Drive in Groton.
Internment will be at the Bay Pines National Cemetery, St. Petersburg, FL, at a later date.
Donations can be made in Sandy's memory to American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741
Read MoreRest in peace sweet Sandy in the arms of the lord and your loved ones. While we've never met, I thought of you as family through my sis, Pat. What an amazing friendship/sisterhood you all had for so many wonderful years. And we will meet one day! Sending prayers to your family and friends during this time.
Deb Hankins and family
November 11, 2025 | Kingston, TN | Friend
Sandra will always hold a place in my heart. I will always remember the wonderful times we had going to lunch at Olive Garden, Applebees or Longhorns, and then shopping afterwards. It has been my privilege to know such a wonderful person. The suffering is over. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Liz Brevard
November 09, 2025 | Montville, CT | Friend
Mom, I don't even know what to say here because my heart is just shattered. I am so happy that you get to be with Jim, Grandma, Meme', and the others that have gone before you. I'm going to miss our long talks and visits but like I told you before you passed, you will be with me in my heart and soul forever as our love and bond cannot be broken by ANYTHING. So, until we meet again, I will carry you in my heart and where I go, so shall you. Love, your Debbie Doo
Deborah Schaeffer
November 09, 2025 | Family
The most loyal friend I ever had.... over 40 years of friendship and 20 years working together in Bar Harbor. Sandy and Jim were the best folks I every worked with and we shared many Winter visits to Dunedin. There will always be a special place in my heart and fond memories of times we all spent together. Never was there a more honest or loyal friend. She will be forever missed and my love for her will never fade... We will meet again.
CRAIG ROBBINS
November 09, 2025 | TRENTON, ME | Coworker
Oh dear Sandra I can’t believe your gone. You were a lifeline to a time gone by. I loved visiting with you talking about our our faith and family. You were so loving and kind. I find peace in knowing you have met our Lord and are on your way to eternal paradise. I hold onto my childhood memories when you would come up to visit with your huge camper and Mitchell St would be at a still as you backed it into Aunt Pats drive way. It was always an exciting time for me. May Eternal rest be granted...
Lauren Phillips
November 09, 2025 | Joplin | Family
I know, in my heart, that you are in a beautiful place, how do I put into words the loss that I feel, impossible. We shared the incredible bond of sisterhood.
We shared over 50 years of amazing times together, whether here in Groton or at your beautiful home in Florida. We shared unforgettable vacations together as well.
You will always be the very best sister and best friend that I could ever have. Your light shines within me every day.
God bless you and...
Patricia Clay
November 09, 2025 | Groton, CT | Sister
