Harold was a graduate of Garinger High School and also attended Central Piedmont Community College. He built a steady, hardworking life, spending over 25 years at Charlotte Pipe Foundry—years marked by commitment, reliability, and a deep sense of responsibility to those who counted on him.
For 45 years, Harold and Susan McLaughlin shared a life together, including 38 years of marriage. His devotion to his family was constant and unmistakable, and he was especially proud of his daughter, Jennifer McLaughlin. Those who knew Harold understood that his loyalty ran deep; once someone was “his,” they had his steadfast support. And in the same way he could be tender and attentive, he could also be firmly set in his ways—an unshakable determination that was simply part of who he was.
Harold found joy in familiar pleasures and time spent close to home. He loved watching football, NASCAR, and college basketball, and in his younger days he enjoyed riding his Harley motorcycle. Saturdays had their own tradition: steak and a baked potato every Saturday night. He also loved spending time with his wife, daughter, and his dog, Peanut, and he cherished all the dogs he had throughout his life. His beloved dog, Peanut, passed away in 2024.
Harold is survived by his wife, Susan McLaughlin, his daughter, Jennifer McLaughlin and siblings, Martha Brawley, Jay McLaughlin and Wanda Hinson. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Carlton McLaughlin, Sr., and his mother, Marcelle Huff McLaughlin.
Visitation will be held at Wilson Funeral & Cremation Service, 5301 Albemarle Road, Charlotte, North Carolina 28212, on June 6, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at Wilson Funeral & Cremation Service on June 6, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm.
Harold will be remembered most for the love and care he had for his family and friends.