OBITUARY: Francis M. McLaughlin, Jr., 91

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Francis M. “Frank” McLaughlin, Jr., 91, a longtime resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on March 20, 1935, Frank was raised in Revere and attended Revere Public Schools before earning a certificate in accounting from the Bentley business school. He dedicated many years of service as an accountant with the Boston Housing Authority, where he built a respected career.

In 1958, Frank married the love of his life, Brenda Fay Robertson. Together they shared an extraordinary 68 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and cherished memories. In 1965, they made Wilmington their home, where they raised their four children: Colleen, Glenn, Lisa, and Sean.

Growing up on Beach Street in Revere, Frank developed a lifelong love of the beach. He treasured family vacations to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, and found great happiness at Silver Lake, the reason he chose to purchase his family home in Wilmington. He also had a lifelong enthusiasm for amusement parks and rides.

Frank and Brenda shared a passion for travel and especially enjoyed taking day trips through the Recreation Department, exploring new places together. An avid animal lover, Frank found joy in caring for the birds and wildlife that visited his yard. Whether they had fur or feathers, he welcomed them with kindness. He also enjoyed reading, photography, and videography. Rarely without a camera or camcorder in hand, Frank lovingly documented family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments, creating treasured memories that will be cherished for generations.

Above all else, Frank’s greatest joy was his family. He was deeply grateful that his children and grandchildren lived nearby, allowing him to watch them grow and share in their lives. His quiet love, steady presence, and unwavering devotion to his family will be remembered always.

Frank was the beloved husband of Brenda (Fay) McLaughlin of Wilmington. He was the loving father of Colleen Flynn and her husband, Douglas, of Wilmington; Glenn McLaughlin and his wife, Nancy, of Wilmington; Lisa Robinson and her husband, Rob, of North Reading; and Sean McLaughlin of Clinton.

He was the cherished “Grandpa” of Christopher Flynn and his wife, Katie; Meghan Flynn; Joshua Robinson; Matthew Robinson; Brittney Willard and her husband, Scott; Taylor Oram and her husband, Al; and Michaela McLaughlin. He was the proud “Great-Grandpa” of Miles Willard, Lilly Willard, and Teddy Oram.

Frank was the son of the late Francis M. McLaughlin and Rose (Venezia) McLaughlin and the dear brother of the late Elizabeth Simone. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and his faithful Husky companion, Buddy.

Family and friends are invited for visitation on Wednesday, August 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Avenue, Wilmington. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home immediately following visitation at 12:00 noon.

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