John J. McLaughlin Sr.

He was the beloved husband of the late Edith F. (Veiger) McLaughlin for 54 years. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Richard and Irene McLaughlin.

John lived a life rooted in service, curiosity, and deep devotion. A proud graduate of La Salle Academy, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Providence College and later an MBA from the University of Rhode Island. His years at URI were especially meaningful to him, where he served as a student service advisor and discovered how much he enjoyed helping others find their way.

John’s commitment to service ultimately led him to the Providence Fire Academy, where he completed his training and began his career as a firefighter, work he was immensely proud of. He carried the camaraderie and purpose of those years with him long after retirement, remaining an active member of the Firefighters’ Retirees Association and cherishing the bonds he formed there.

John and Edith shared a beautiful spirit of adventure. Together, they traveled the world—from the beaches of Turks and Caicos to the vibrant streets of Tenerife and Spain. They crossed the Strait of Gibraltar into Africa, wandered through Morocco, and bartered in the Casbah. Their journeys took them on cruises to Florida and Aruba, flights to Rome, quiet evenings in Venice, and explorations across the Greek Islands. They also found joy closer to home, visiting Hawaii, Arizona, Nevada, California, and so many places in between. Wherever they went, they collected stories and memories that John loved to share.

At home, John loved computer gaming and shared that passion with others through PC Tech, the computer store he co-owned in Warwick for many years. His enthusiasm for technology and problem-solving made him a natural guide to anyone who needed a helping hand.

Above all else, John was proud of the family he built. He was the loving father of three children, Leslie M. Morrissey and her husband Ronald, John J. McLaughlin Jr. and his wife Nicole, and Heather L. McLaughlin. He was the cherished grandfather of Michael Mariorenzi, Caitlin Gansert and her husband Jacob, Aoife McLaughlin, John “Jack” McLaughlin III, and the late Daniel Patrick Walleston Jr. John’s joy only grew as the family expanded, and he treasured his role as great-grandfather to Juliana Rose Gansert and Gavin William Gansert. He was also the beloved brother of the late Richard McLaughlin.

A celebration of John’s life will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, followed by a service of shared memories at 12:00 p.m. at the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 142 Centerville Road, Warwick. Family and friends are invited to bring a brief memory or story to share.