Helen “Sis” D. McLaughlin

Helen D. McLaughlin (nee Kealey)

 July 20, 1939 - November 1, 2024

 Helen, fondly known as Sis or Sissy, passed away peacefully at home with family by her side. She was 85 years old.

 The daughter of the late James J. Kealey, Sr. and Anna Mae Kealey (nee Jordan). Sister of Mary, Anna Marie (Tootsie), Fran, Diane, the late Mae (Betty), James J. Jr, and Kathleen (Kass).

 The loving wife of the late James P. McLaughlin, Jr. The adored sister-in-law of the late Catherine W. McLaughlin. The cherished mother of Colleen Mathews (Greg), Maureen, Helene Custren (Jim), James P., III (Debbie), Joseph M., Sr., Michael (Bill), and Kathleen Malin (Bill). The adoring MomMom of Nicole, Kristy, Shannon, Gregory (Charlotte), Jessica (Joseph), James P., IV, Megan, Melissa (Adam), Christopher (Morgan), Jason, Joseph M., Jr., Stephen, Nathan, Hanna, and Delanee.

 The great MomMom of Juliette, Jayce, Reagan, Colton, Ainsley, Grayson, Sage, Scarlett, and Mason. Sis is also survived by many friends, loving cousins, nieces, and nephews.

 Sis was born the second oldest of eight children in the East Falls section of Philadelphia. At the age of 18 her parents moved the family to the Frankford section where they set down roots on Paul Street. Sis was a graduate of John W. Hallahan High School; class of 1957. An accomplishment she was very proud of. Sis met the love of her life right across the street. Sis and Jim married in September 1964 and remained on Paul Street where they raised their seven children. She was a devoted former parishioner of Mater Dolorosa Parish where she spent many years volunteering her time at the school. 

 Sis was a dedicated wife and mother who took pride in caring for her family. She had a strong work ethic. She often spoke about the years she worked for Curtis Publishing Co in Center City. Sis was always on the move. When things got tough, she found a way to make extra money for her family by cleaning other people’s houses once a week. This turned into a full time business with many customers. Sis enjoyed providing this service and continued to do so for 20 years.

 In 2000, after the passing of her husband of 35 years. She moved to the Academy Gardens section of Philadelphia where she continued to lovingly care for her sister-in-law, Cassie, fulfilling the promise that she made. She also continued her devotion to her faith as a parishioner of St. Jerome Parish where she attended Sunday Mass. 

 Sis enjoyed going to the Casino, going to breakfast with her sisters, and trips to Wildwood. She enjoyed endless games of 500 Rummy and a good cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee. She liked a good party, especially when she could show off her Mummer strutting skills. Sis was a courageous, strong willed woman who had a zest for life and always found something to smile about. Above all else, Sis loved being with her family the most. It is there where she shined. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

 Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Thursday evening, November 7th beginning at 6pm at St. Jerome Church, 8100 Colfax St., Phila., PA 19114. An additional viewing and funeral will be held Friday November 8th beginning at 9:30am at St. Jerome Church. Her funeral mass will begin at 11am. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. 

 In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Helen D. McLaughlin Catholic Education Fund and given to the family. If you wish to mail a donation, please send it in care of Nulty Funeral Home, 2614 Orthodox St., Phila., PA 19137.