Anthony "Tony" Jay McLaughlin

Anthony “Tony” Jay McLaughlin was born February 8, 1953, in Anderson, Indiana. He passed away suddenly on January 5, 2024, after a sudden decline in his health. He was only 70 years of age. Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell McLaughlin and Virginia Modglin; his in-laws, Gerald and Maurine Harris; and his niece, Jamie Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 50 years, Karen; brother Danny McLaughlin and his wife Donna; brother Randy McLaughlin and his wife Jolene; daughter Melissa Greer; daughter Jodi Mitchell and her husband, Paul, and Adam Greer; five grandchildren, Owen Adam Greer, Madeline Elaine Mitchell, Jaxon Anthony Greer, Cooper Joseph Mitchell, and Knox Harris Greer; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tony spent most of his life in Pendleton, Indiana, and was proud of his home state. After spending a year at college, his father encouraged him toward independence, requiring that he get a job. Tony launched his career in the Guide Division of General Motors in June 1973, inspiring a love for cars. After 30 years of dedicated service, he retired from the Wentzville Assembly division at GM in 2006.

Tony loved the Lord and drew strength from communities of faith at the Columbus Avenue Church of Christ in Anderson, IN, McKnight Crossings Church of Christ in St. Louis, MO, and Wentzville Christian Church in Wentzville, MO. With a passion for sharing his faith through outreach to children, Tony was a consistent presence at Vacation Bible School, always wanting to inspire the next generation.

Tony had a passion for music and anticipated for everyone in the family to play an instrument. Personally proficient as a tuba player, Tony taught his girls how to play the French horn and flute and the grandchildren to play the French horn, flute, trumpet and clarinet.

Despite all his interests and passions, family was Tony’s greatest joy. He cherished Karen, who had been his high school sweetheart. Many have expressed jealousy over Karen’s ability to coerce Tony to do anything that needed to be done—cooking, cleaning, home repairs, errands, and even sewing on buttons. He adored being a dad to his two girls. Tony also enjoyed his dogs—especially his crazy schnauzers. When grandchildren came along, Tony found his stride in retirement, becoming a full-time Papa. He found delight in babysitting, running shuttle, attending their sports games, making them “cowboy beans” and “prison breakfast,” and splashing with them in the pool. Tony loved for his home to be a gathering space and made sure everyone felt welcome. Tony was never short on words.

Tony’s family feels like it is unfair to have to limit the beauty of his life to a few short paragraphs. They express that while they are grieving and will miss being together with him this side of heaven, they are rejoicing that he is whole and safe in the arms of Jesus.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Tony’s name to Christian Family Services (www.stlcfs.org), 7955 Big Bend Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63119.

To view a recording of the live webcasted services, please click here.