On January 12, 2026, Joseph "Ray" McLaughlin passed away at his residence. He was 94 years old. Beloved husband of Medie G. McLaughlin; devoted father of Ronnie McLaughlin (Donna), Michael McLaughlin (Barbara), Patty McLaughlin, and the late Jimmy McLaughlin (2018); dear brother of Betty Mahaffey. Also survived by eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Ray was born and raised in Cass, WV. He served in the Navy. He moved to Gray Manor in 1955. Ray worked at Thompson Steel for 41 years. He was a hard worker his entire life. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors and he put others before himself. Ray was a devoted husband and father.
Ray volunteered with Boy Scouts and with the food pantry at church. He enjoyed gardening and spending time in WV at the family’s property. He also enjoyed sitting outside in the yard.
Friends may call at the family-owned Bruzdzinski Funeral Home P.A., 1407 Old Eastern Avenue, Essex, Maryland 21221, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 2 to 6 PM. A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 10 AM. Interment Oak Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Accent Care Hospice, 5457 Twin Knolls Road, Suite 100, Columbia, MD. 21045.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1407 Old Eastern Avenue, Essex, MD 21221

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