Merlene McLaughlin

Merlene "Gidgit" Ada McLaughlin, 85, of Harrisburg, passed away Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte.  

Merlene was born June 23, 1937 in Vermont to the late Merlin Farnsworth and the late Lizzie Edna Farnsworth.  

She was also preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Edwin Clayton McLaughlin; daughters, Donna Louise McLaughlin and Pennie Ann McLaughlin; sister, Elizabeth Labor; brothers, Eugene Farnsworth, Raymond "Cricket" Farnsworth, Royce Farnsworth, and Roger Farnsworth.  

Merlene enjoyed playing hand and foot, dominos, bingo and playing on her Ipad. She enjoyed spending her time with her family and her friends, many of which she considered to be like her own sisters. She also loved seeing her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren grow up and the accomplishments they have made throughout their lives. Merlene and her late husband, Ed, had a camper in which they loved to travel in with friends for nearly over 30 years.  

Survivors include daughter, Denise (Jimmy) Hurst of Dade City, Florida; sons, Greg Davis of Gastonia, NC and Gary (Yvonne) McLaughlin of Monroe, NC;  daughter, Robin (Steven) Guilmain of Harrisburg, NC 10 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly; sister, Margaret Taylor; sister, Janet (Gary) Dalloff; sister, Ruthie Morlock; brother, Merrill (Robin) Farnsworth; and brother, Brian Farnsworth.  

Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of your choice.  

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the McLaughlin family.