Michael (Cookie) McLaughlin

Michael (Cookie) McLaughlin, a beloved mother, grandmother, and a cherished member of her community, peacefully departed this world on September 24, 2026, in the comforting care of Mercy (Cleveland Clinic) Hospice. Born on June 3, 1942, in Canton, Ohio, Cookie was the daughter of Garfield Rutledge Jr. and Rosa Lee (Goodman) Rutledge. Cookie led a life filled with love, service, and devotion to her family and community. She was predeceased by her parents, her cherished siblings Mary Rutledge and Laura (Rutledge) Thomas, and her dear husband, Moody E. McLaughlin. She is survived by her brother Garfield Rutledge III, her sons Randy, Martin, and Craig McLaughlin, Daughter in Laws Lisa and Valerie McLaughlin, her grandchildren Martinique McLaughlin, Craig McLaughlin Jr., Porsha (McLaughlin) Simmons, and Micheal McLaughlin, her great-grandchildren Makai, Milani, Kayson, Cora, Samuel, and Samaya, and her great-great-grandchild, little Iyla, who carries forward the legacy of a loving family. A proud graduate of McKinley High School in 1961, Cookie ventured to New York City in 1962 to seek greater opportunities. Her journey led her to a fulfilling career as a Medical Records Clerk at Astoria General Hospital, later known as Western Queens Hospital, where she served with dedication until her retirement in October 2004. Following her retirement, Cookie returned to her hometown of Canton to care for her ailing mother, demonstrating the deep familial loyalty that characterized her life. Cookie's faith was a cornerstone of her life; she embraced her spirituality as a member of Peoples Baptist Church, where she was actively involved until her physical health no longer permitted her to. She was a member of the June Bug Birthday Ministry. Her commitment to faith and family extended to her service as a foster caregiver, providing a nurturing environment for children who needed love and guidance and shelter. Her hobbies included frequenting flea markets and yard sales, where she delighted in collecting nostalgic treasures. An animal lover at heart, Cookie adored her pets, two cats, and a dog named Taco, and found simple joys in feeding the birds in her backyard. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she loved cooking for her sons and hosting Sunday breakfasts and dinners, a tradition that emphasized the importance of family togetherness. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Mercy (Cleveland Clinic) Hospice for the compassionate care and comfort they provided to Cookie during her final days. In her memory, the family suggests donations to a charity of your choice. Cookie's life was a testament to love, faith, and service. Her warm spirit and generous heart touched all who knew her, and she will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by her family and friends.