Winthrop – Sandra A. McLaughlin, 76, passed away Thursday, June 29, 2017 at Canton – Potsdam Hospital with her children at her side Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop.
Sandra was born on May 15, 1941 in Brasher Falls, daughter of the late Douglas D. and Huldah (Tilden) Ploof, Jr. She graduated from St. Lawrence Central School and continued her education at the University of Buffalo. On February 11, 1961, she married Peter J. McLaughlin at St. Lawrence Church in North Lawrence with Fr. B. A. O'Connell celebrating. They shared 44 years of love and many lasting memories. Peter passed on September 27, 2005.
Sandra worked at the St. Regis Nursing Home for over 30 years, starting as a Nurse's Aide, Physical Therapy Aide, Activities Director and Administrative Assistant. She dedicated herself to her service to the elderly, while maintaining a loving home for her family. She was active for many years in the Stockholm Democratic Committee and the Board of Elections.
Her family will remember the long rides to their camp on the Deer River, the special moments at Christmas and the love she had for her family. She was always true to the people she loved and never expected anything in return. Her maternal nature earned her the love and esteem of her children and endeared her to her grandchildren who were her greatest joy.
Sandra is survived by her children, Melissa McLaughlin-TenEyck and Steve Evans of Winthrop, Mickey J. McLaughlin and Emily Sanchez of Potsdam and Marcy M. McLaughlin of Tucson, AZ, one brother, Jim and Nancy Ploof of Winthrop and one sister, Barbara Ploof-Steele of Brasher Falls, five grandchildren, Trevor and Tara TenEyck of Brasher Falls, Katelyn TenEyck of Athens, GA, Molly TenEyck of Lake Placid, Courtney Cooper of Tucson, AZ, Zachary Vincent of Tucson, AZ, Miles Paxton McLaughlin of Potsdam and Simon Peter McLaughlin (on the way), two great grandchildren, Alyvia TenEyck and Adrianna TenEyck, her faithful canine companion, Murphy, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Sunday from 1 to 4 pm at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Sandra's Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday at St. Patrick Church at 10 am in Brasher Falls. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
Donations in her memory can be made to the St. Regis Nursing Home Activity Fund, 89 Grove Street, Massena, NY 13662.
Memories and condolences can be share with her family at www.hammillfh.com.