John S. McLaughlin

John Samuel McLaughlin, 63, of Lee Jackson Highway, Staunton, passed away at his residence on Sunday, June 15, 2025.

He came into this world with a bang on July 27, 1961, and continued to cause controlled chaos for the better part of his life.

He kept his parents on their toes with many childhood antics. Whether he was secretly nursing an injured screech owl in his bedroom or nearly blowing himself up trying to eliminate ant mounds, John had a knack for turning the ordinary into an unforgettable adventure.

During his teenage years, he roamed the roads with his brothers, Dennis and Frank, making memories and giving his mother more than a few heart palpitations along the way.

As an adult, John worked for his father's construction company. He moved onto repairing the naval ships at the Oceana Naval Base in Norfolk. From there he co-founded his own successful construction company, Shenandoah Estates, with his friend Skip, a venture from which he had recently retired.

In his spare time, John could always be found hanging around downtown Staunton. He enjoyed sharing stories of his many escapades, dancing with beautiful women and toasting to his friends. Whether you'd just met him or had known him for years, John made you feel like a lifelong friend

He had a love for life that was incomparable, a love for travel that was unquenchable and a love for his family that was undeniable. He was truly a once-in-a-lifetime soul who will be sorely missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Joan McLaughlin; his uncle, Ashton Godley; his brother, Dennis Smith; and a special friend, Sissy Johnson.

He is survived by his daughter, Brie Lawhorne and her husband, Jesse Bosserman, and their children, Skylar, Isabelle and Willow; his sisters, Katrina Tankersly and Beth McLaughlin; his brother, Frank Smith and his wife Barbara; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and extended family.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

Following the visitation, friends and family are invited to 3rd Generations Bar and Grill in Waynesboro to raise one final toast to John - a devoted grandfather, father, brother, son, and unforgettable friend.