(1933 - 2019)
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Mary Helen Jacqueline Parris McLaughlin, age 86, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, August 3, 2019.
Born June 20, 1933, in Copperhill, Jackie grew up on Galloway Road in Blue Ridge.
The sixth of seven children, she was 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 (now the University of North Georgia), 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 of Chamblee, Georgia, Deborah Banks and Steven Marks of Atlanta and Jack McLaughlin Jr. of Rome, Georgia; 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 Saturday, October 5, 2019, at 2 p.m. at Toccoa Baptist Church, located at Old US Highway 76, Morganton. Burial will be held at Toccoa Baptist Church Cemetery adjoining the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Toccoa Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.