Lori J. McLaughlin

Lori Jean McLaughlin, 67, of Groton, N.Y. passed on May 11, 2025 at Hospicare after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Lori was born on March 24, 1958 in Cortland, N.Y. She was born to Edward Wise and Jane Devlen, graduating from Dryden High School in 1976. She went on to study nursing at Keuka College, graduating in 1980 and starting her nursing career at Tompkins County Hospital. She finished her nearly 35 year career at Cornell Health (Gannett Health Center). During her college years, she fell in love with Art and they married in October 1980. Art and Lori started their family in 1982, with their first born son, Lee. Losing Lee to a heart condition both tested their foundation and strengthened it, a testimony to their love for each other and dedication to continuing a family. They were able to have three healthy, active children that Lori shared with pride.

A trusted, reliable friend and colleague, she was loved dearly in every path she crossed. Lori made friends in every corner of life, loved travel and planning trips. Many trips were spent with her closest high school friends, Anne Dickinson, Toni Rose (Couch) and Mary Converse (Trask). She treasured and prioritized these friendships like family. It is with deep love that the McLaughlin family extends condolences to Anne, Toni and Mary, and thank them for their steadfast support to Lori and her children.

Lori was also known to many as a dedicated registered nurse. Lori was intelligent, hard working and committed to her many roles at Cornell Health. She was skilled in women’s health, travel nursing, immunizations and triage. She helped thousands of students, employees and families navigate care needs. Lori carefully studied specialized roles and took pride in her competency. She was always a listening ear, offering guidance. Her colleagues often share admiration for Lori and appreciation to have worked with her, as many quickly became lifelong friends.

Lori spent what free time she had enjoying nature, walking and gardening, cooking and was able to carve out regular travel with family and friends. Many trips included a beach shore, where Lori searched daily for shells and sea glass. She was able to travel to Italy, Ireland and Wales following her retirement - the Scottish Highlands a highlight. It cannot go unmentioned that Lori also loved music and dancing, her smile and energy contagious. Lori perhaps treasured patio time at home as much as her biggest trips. Admiring her flower beds with a glass of wine, she was proud of all she worked hard for and that she could share it with others.

Artie, Lori’s husband of 37 years, passed in 2018. Despite navigating life’s hardships, family and home were always prioritized. Lori was the backbone of every activity, family event and was unwavering in the loss of Art. They talked regularly about retirement travel and would have undoubtedly lived out years filling their passports and putting miles on their car.

Lori’s devoted sister, Cindie Armstrong (Wise), played an immeasurable role in her life and the life of her children. Always loyal and dependable, giving generously of her time and energy, her support resolute.

The pride she had for her children she shared equally in her grandchildren, enjoying many special events and moments in their lives, giving advice and modeling a life of fun.

Lori is survived by her children, Amanda (Matt Sidle, Jordan Sidle), Alison (Jason, Alayna Kemp), and Eric McLaughin. She is also survived by her sister, Cindie (Charlie Armstrong), nephews, several aunts, uncles and cousins. Lori was predeceased by her husband, Art, and son, Lee. She was predeceased by her mother, Jane, and father, Edward; mother and father in law, Arthur McLaughlin Sr and Clara; Sister in law, Linda Bush and nephew, Chad Bush.

Lori’s children would like to extend immense gratitude to Dan and Rhonda McLaughlin for their unwavering support and gentle love, and reminders in how to live life.

Appreciation also expressed to Lori’s medical and Hospicare team for their guidance and care.

Calling hours will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Perkins Funeral Home in Dryden N.Y. on Friday, May 23rd. A funeral service will follow from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, followed by burial at Willow Glen Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather afterwards at the Groton Community Center, Groton N.Y., for a celebration of Lori’s life. Donations may be made in Lori’s memory to Hospicare, 172 East King Road Ithaca, NY. Online condolences at www.perkinsfh.com