Richard P. McLaughlin

recently retired funeral director, Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors, Royal Oak, Michigan, died September 16, 2025, at age 102.

McLaughlin served in the U.S. Army during World War II and, upon returning, began his 75-plus-year tenure in the funeral service profession.

He graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in mortuary science. He worked for FB Hunter before joining Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors, where he continued his lifelong career. He even returned to work full time just weeks after “retiring” in 1988. Believed to be the oldest active funeral director in the country, he worked tirelessly through his 100th year.

McLaughlin attended the National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica, and was a member of the American Legion, Kiwanis Club, and Elks.

McLaughlin is survived by children Janice, Gayle, Barbara and Richard Jr.; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.