Jacqueline Parris McLaughlin

MCLAUGHLIN, JACQUELINE P.

Mary Helen Jacqueline Parris McLaughlin, 86, of Atlanta, GA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 3, 2019.  Born June 20, 1933, in Copper Hill, Tennessee, Jackie grew up on Galloway Road in Blue Ridge, GA.  The sixth of seven children, she is preceded in death by her parents Avery Johnson and Jessie Mae (Hickey) Parris; brothers Avery James, Jr., Phillip Douglas, and Johnny Nathaniel; sister, brother-in-law, and nephew JoAnne, Orville, and David Opp; sister-in-law Jane Parris; and, son Timothy John McLaughlin.

A graduate of North Georgia College, Jackie began her long career as an executive secretary as secretary to the Dean of NGC.  Upon graduation, she moved to Atlanta, married, and lived in Japan for several years.  She worked for senior partners in one of Atlanta’s largest law firms; and later, as a bookkeeper, manager, secretary, receptionist, and executive for several family members’ businesses.

An avid reader of the Bible, poetry, and nonfiction, especially true crime, Jackie was also an accomplished gardener, competitive bridge player, loyal Atlanta Braves fan; and, an amazing quilter, designing and creating many personal treasures for family and friends.  Mostly, she loved being with her family and always enjoyed hosting Easter luncheons complete with dyeing and hiding dozens of eggs. 

Left to cherish her memory, survivors include children Kristina Zurlino (Chamblee, GA), Deborah Banks/Steven Marks (Atlanta, GA), and Jack McLaughlin, Jr. (Rome, GA); grandchildren James Kinzer, Sam and Jesse Zurlino; brothers Sam and Ben Parris, sister-in-law Mildred Parris; and, dearly loved nieces, nephews, and grand dogs.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2019, 2:00pm at Toccoa Baptist Church, Old US Hwy 76, Morganton, GA  30560.  Burial Toccoa Baptist Church Cemetery adjoining the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Toccoa Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jacqueline Parris McLaughlin, please visit our Tree Store.