Hugh Andrew (Andy) McLaughlin, 91, passed away Thursday, September 27, 2018. He was born October 19, 1926 in Taylor, Texas, the first child of Hugh Andrew McLaughlin, Sr. and Ada Elizabeth Coupland, both deceased. He was baptized December 21, 1926 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Andy was descended from Republic of Texas settlers, the Hamiltons and the Couplands who received a Spanish Land Grant in central Texas.
In 1944 he graduated from Taylor High School. He then served in the U. S. Army, joined the Thirty-third Division in the Philippines, preparing for the invasion of Japan. World War II ended, and the remainder of Andy’s enlistment, he served in the U. S. Military Government, Occupation of Japan Forces. He was a Tech Sergeant. He used his G.I. bill to attend college, graduating from the University of Texas with a business major in August, 1950. He went to work for DuPont in Victoria, retiring as a Sr. Purchasing Agent December 31, 1988, with 38 years of service.
August 22, 1953, Andy married Margaret Ellen Newlin, a school teacher whom he met in Victoria. This past August they celebrated 65 years of marriage. They had two children: Patrick McLaughlin of Kennedale, Texas, and Julie (Graham) Fleming of Houston, Texas. His grandchildren are Anique Hyden, Anali and Andrew McLaughlin and Ryan and Shelby Fleming. His family was a great source of pride for him. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Bill.
Andy was formerly active with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as Commissioner for several years. He was a father and grandfather of Eagle Scouts. He served many years on the Board of Friends of the Victoria Library, two terms as president. He did volunteer work at the Victoria Public Library for 18 years. He was a former Vestryman for several terms and served as Church Treasurer at St. Francis Episcopal Church, of which he was member.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 11 am at St. Francis Episcopal Church, with Rev. Stephen Carson officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Francis Episcopal Church, Hospice of South Texas or Friends of the Victoria Public Library.
Share condolences at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
