James O. McLaughlin Jr.

James O. McLaughlin, Jr., 86, passed away peacefully with his daughter, Tracie, by his side Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011, in Chesapeake, VA. After graduating from Hapeville High School, Jim joined the U. S. Army Air Corp. and was honorably discharged. He went to work for Atlanta Federal Savings & Loan in the late 1950's which later became Georgia Federal Savings. He retired as Vice President after 30 years of service at the corporate office.

After retirement, he pursued his passion of antiques by opening "Pierce's Corner" antique store in Suwanee, GA, with his wife, Velma. He was instrumental in developing "Old Town Suwanee" as President of the Suwanee Historical Society during the late 1980's.

Jim was a very kind and caring man with a great sense of humor who deeply loved his family and friends, many of whom were from his hometown of Hapeville, GA. He always had a story to tell or a joke to make you laugh, usually with his best bud, Jerre O. Williams, by his side.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving daughters, Tracie Chesworth and husband, Doug, and Vicki McLaughlin; grandson, Brian Chesworth; step-grandson, Joe Chesworth and wife, Jackie, and great granddaughters, Leigh and Shay Chesworth; as well as a niece, Judy Arnold and nephews, Scott Stancill and Drew McWilliams.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Velma, and two sisters, Betty Stancill and Pansy McWilliams.

Viewing will be at Patterson Oglethorpe Hill, Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011, from 3-5 pm. Funeral services will be Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011 at 1:30 pm at Northwoods United Methodist Church, followed by a graveside service at White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Duluth, GA.

In lieu of flowers, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or charity of your choice. Condolences may be expressed at www.hmpattersonoglethorpe.com.

Arrangements under the direction of H.M. Patterson & Son Oglethorpe Hill, Atlanta, GA.