Erin McLaws

Erin McLaws, age 43, passed away peacefully on February 1st, 2026.

Remembered for Her Humor, Heart, and Strength

Born April 22, 1982, in Oklahoma City, Erin grew up with a bright spirit, a sharp sense of humor, and a warm heart that drew people to her throughout her life.

Erin spent most of her childhood in Hanover Park, IL, where she made friends easily and discovered her love for dance. She graduated from Bartlett High School and went on to pursue a career in medical imaging - a field where her intelligence and compassion shone. Erin earned her degree from Triton College and worked as an X-ray and CT technician at Alexian Brothers, Sherman, and Central DuPage Hospitals. Her proudest professional role was serving on the Central DuPage Hospital Mobile Stroke Unit, where she made a meaningful, life-saving impact every day.

Erin lived life with energy and openness. She treasured her friends, loved a good laugh, and enjoyed concerts, motorcycle rides, and any place with warm weather and water. She created lasting memories on beach trips and cruises, especially those she shared with family.

A devoted animal lover, Erin fostered dogs and proudly adopted Sampson and Wrigley, who brought her great joy. She faced life's challenges with courage and determination and was proud to celebrate one year of sobriety this January. Erin held close the memory of her family, and her faith brought her comfort and peace.

Erin was preceded in death by her father, David McLaws, and her mother, Terry McLaws, who she loved deeply.

She is survived by her loving brother, Brian McLaws, his wife Jeanne, and their children - Hazel, Georgia, and John. Also surviving are loving aunts and uncles: Lee Ann and Mark Dickerson, Scott and Michelle McLaws, Donna and Ray Grupp, and close cousins. Erin treasured many dear lifelong friends whose lives she touched with kindness, humor, and loyalty and she was grateful for their enduring support through life's challenges.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Ahlgrim Funeral Home, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, Illinois, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. We will be fulfilling Erin's wish for an event filled with stories, laughter, and faithful love. She asked that her ashes be placed in water and a commemorative motorcycle ride be held to remember her adventurous spirit. Erin will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her warmth, her strength, and the joy she brought to others.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Erin by helping someone in need, supporting your local humane society, or an addiction treatment recovery center.