Ronald Christopher McLaughlin

Ronald Christopher "Chris" McLaughlin, age 55, of Raleigh, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 20, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Chris departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and an adventurous spirit that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Ashley McLaughlin, with whom he shared 22 wonderful years of marriage. Chris and Ashley met in 1999, drawn together by their shared love of adventure and adrenaline. Their bond grew through navigating life's ups and downs, their enjoyment of travelling, their love of action and suspense shows and movies, and raising their family. Their marriage was built on love, trust, and a deep devotion to one another.

Together, Chris and Ashley were blessed with two cherished sons, Ty and Trevor, who were the pride and joy of their lives. He will forever be remembered as a loving father and true family man, whose greatest happiness was found in time spent with those he loved, including his favorite fur baby, Kenzie!

Born and raised in Florida, Chris carried the spirit of his home state with him wherever he went. He loved everything about the outdoors - boating, fishing, surfing, mountain biking, snow skiing, knee boarding, trips to the beach, and camping under the stars. He also had a lifelong passion for soccer and hockey. He loved attending Carolina Hurricanes' games with his family.

Chris had a fearless love for speed and adrenaline. Whether on his motorcycle, behind the wheel of a muscle car, or on a roller coaster, he embraced life with joy, energy, and excitement. He was also a fan of all things racing, especially NASCAR and dirt track races, which became cherished times of male bonding with his family.

Chris had an avid love for airplanes and found joy in attending airshows with his family. He also had a deep love for marine life, having worked as a marine turtle specialist in his early Florida years. Chris was incredibly handy around the house and loved being creative with woodworking projects. He also took great pride in cooking for his family and friends, drawing on his experience as a former chef. His many self-created recipes became highly desired favorites among those lucky enough to enjoy them.

Chris was proud of his career as an IT Specialist at UNC Healthcare, where his dedication and skill made a difference every day. He also loved his church. He and his family were members of Cross Assembly in Raleigh.

Chris is also survived by his mother, Martha "Marty" McLaughlin Taylor, who always adored his beautiful, mischievous smile and dimples; his brother, Rande McLaughlin; his sister, Sara McLaughlin; mother-in-law, Diane Gray; brothers-in-law, Randy Gray (Jan) and Chris Gray (Leslie); and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Henry McLaughlin, with whom he now rests in eternal peace.

Chris' adventurous soul, humor, creativity, and unwavering devotion to his family will never be forgotten. His memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love him.

A celebration of Chris' life will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Parrish Funeral Home in Selma, NC. Visitation will be held at 1pm and service at 2pm, with burial following at Creech Family Cemetery. Flowers are welcome or donations may be made to Cross Assembly in Raleigh, NC.

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