Death Notice
McLaughlin — Peacefully, but unexpectedly, at her residence after a life wonderfully lived on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Gloria LaDonna McLaughlin of Petrolia passed away at the age of 90, just shy of her 91st birthday in September.
Much loved mother of Dianne Shephard (Dave) of Petrolia and Jim McLaughlin (Shelley) of Mooretown. Treasured grandmother of Mike Shephard (Roni), Patrick McLaughlin (Claire), Janna Williamson (Todd), and Donna Daigle. Gloria was a cherished great-grandmother of Brent, Alysha (Scott), Stefanie (Phil), Kendall (Dylan) and Jack, and a GG (great-great-grandmother) of 5. She was the dear sister-in-law of Lois Miller (the late Bill) of Corunna.
Gloria was predeceased by her husband Joseph (2007); her beloved companion, Tom Lumley (2021); her son, Tim (2017); her brothers, John Miller (the late Betty) and Bill Miller; her sister June Fowler (the late Ivan); and her parents Jim and Mary Miller.
Tiny in stature but truly larger than life, Gloria will be remembered for her courageous spirit, strong will, and generous heart. She was a gifted and passionate musician who could play piano by ear, sang beautifully, and served as a dedicated choir director for many years. She shared her love of music by teaching piano to countless students over the years.
Gloria embraced life with energy and determination. She coached girls’ baseball in Courtright, was an avid card player with a well-earned reputation as a bit of a card shark, and proudly represented Canada as part of the International Seniors Shuffleboard Team, travelling to destinations including Australia, Russia, and across the United States. She also enjoyed spending 31 years wintering in Florida. She was deeply committed to her community and her faith as a lifelong member of Sixth Line United Church.
Opinionated, outspoken, and at times demanding, Gloria was equally loving, kind, and fiercely devoted to her family and friends — including her many nieces and nephews, both by blood and by heart. She lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Friends will be received at the Knight Funeral Home, 588 St. Clair Parkway, Corunna, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 5–7 p.m., where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday with Rev. Carol Fergusson officiating. Cremation has taken place and her cremated remains will be interred in Bear Creek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through memorial donations to the Sixth Line United Church or to St. Joseph’s Hospice in Sarnia. Messages and condolences may be left online at www.knightfuneralhome.ca
Knight 519-862-2485
Gloria McLaughlin
Visitation Information
Tuesday June 9, 2026 from 5-7 p.m.
Donations
Sixth Line United Church St. Joseph's Hospice, Sarnia
Funeral Date
Wednesday June 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
13 thoughts on “Gloria McLaughlin”
Sincere condolences to Dianne, Jim, and all Gloria’s much loved family. Gloria enthusiastically shared her many experiences at our weekly apartment gatherings. We will certainly miss her warm and caring presence in our building.
Gloria and Kevin
Very lovely lady will really miss her at cards sorry for the family she truly will be missed by every one
Gloria’s friends at St. Paul’s are so saddened to hear of her passing. We extend our sincere sympathy to you all at this sad time. We will all miss her. We were so happy to see her on Sundays and visiting with her at coffee after. My husband enjoyed taking her up the chairlift. I am so glad we got such a lovely picture of her for our Church directory. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Blessings – Marion Henderson on behalf of St. Paul’s United Church.
Gloria was a ball of fire, a warm and loving woman, loved her euchre, her friends and she had a beautiful smile, loved teasing her about her smile, clothes, her nails. She truly was a warm loving woman. She made me smile, she always looked classy, spoke her mind but respected others doing the same. The Petrolia Legion will truly miss her and I know the card players will miss her smile and good wishes to all. Rest in Peace, Gloria, you captured hearts, made people smile and were a true friend.
Lorie
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Gloria attended St. Paul’s United Church in Petrolia, She was such a little firecracker I enjoyed our chats she talked about her cruises and Trips. I would like to share this little story when Gloria came to have her photo taken for the United church photo directory. She was so cute. She had her nails done just perfect and her lipstick. She was so worried that her picture wouldn’t be great, but it turned out absolutely beautiful! She will definitely be missed at our Sunday Services. RIP to a beautiful Soul❤️🩹
Sorry for the loss of your mother. Sending condolences 🙏
Dianne and David, we are so sorry for your loss. This painted a picture of Gloria in a beautiful way, she was an incredible women who lived fully and touched so many hearts along the way. Sending our heartfelt condolences to all during this difficult time. May the memories you shared with her bring comfort in the days ahead.
We will miss our chats!
Adam and Erica
Petrolia Foot Clinic
so sorry, my deepest condolences to your family
Gloria made me the singer I am today. When I was part of the Mooretown Youth Choir/Kids for Christ, I had a low opinion of my skills and Gloria helped me see my potential and even made me a soloist, which really helped with my confidence. She was very patient and nurturing and for that, I am eternally grateful to her. Gloria will always hold a special place in my heart. I send love and peace to all of her loved ones and my fellow choir members.
Dear Diane and Jim.
Just 3 weeks ago I helped Gloria into her car. Had some giggles and waved good bye as she went her merry way.
So glad I had that time with her. She was a fun and treasured cousin. She loved her family fiercely. She will be missed.
Phyllis Wallen
My condolences to Gloria’s family Hugs
Our Sympathy to Diane ,Marilyn Deanna, LouAnn and all their families. Gloria was a wonderful and very outgoing person who Loved Life and her children. It was a pleasure knowing her. Chuck & Betty Lauwereys
I met Gloria from her attendance at St. Philip parish hall on Friday nights playing Euchre in Petrolia. I also knew Gloria from some interactions with folks at St. Paul’s United. She had a unique way when playing Euchre. I was impressed when she would tell others that I was a good card player. I will remember that having her nails done was important to her; I never knew what colour or decals she would have on her nails next when she came to play cards – usually seasonal. I also felt I had something in common with Gloria as I am a church musician. I wish I would have been able to hear her play the piano back in the days when she was much healthier. May you rest in peace now Gloria and sing along with all the angels in Heaven. We will always remember your unique personality and miss you somewhat at cards.
MaryBeth