Barbara “Barbie” (Brooks) McLaughlin
January 29, 1945 - September 26, 2024
Barbara “Barbie” (Brooks) McLaughlin, age 79, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
Born in Wilmington, DE on January 29, 1945, she was a daughter of the late Claude Melvin and Audrey (Battersby) Brooks, Sr. Barbie grew up in Newark and graduated from Newark High School 1963. In addition to her studies, Barbie played field hockey, basketball and gymnastics. Shortley after graduation she married Edward C. McLaughlin and was married for 30 years until his death in 1993. Barbie was an excellent student and threw herself back into college after Eddie’s passing and graduated with her master’s degree. During college, she worked at the Learning Station where she made many long-lasting friendships. Upon graduation, Barbara made her career working in social services for the State of Maryland. After she retired, she worked for Child Inc, Domestic Violence Shelter and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).
Barbara, also known as “Ethel” by friends and family, loved traveling the world with her traveling friend group. One of her greatest trips was to London in 1976 with her best friend Kathie. She loved the beach and would go as often as she could. Barbie also enjoyed roller skating as a child and continued skating in competitions as an adult with dance partner Benny. She also loved spending her free time volunteering to help others in her community. Barbie had many close friends and wonderful neighbors. But above all, Barbara cherished the memories she made with her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Edward C. McLaughlin; and son, Brian E. McLaughlin. She is survived by her daughter, Dawn M. McLaughlin (Jim) of Wilmington and Lisa M. Byroade of Elkton, MD; daughter-in-law, Kathy McLaughlin; grandchildren, James Edward McLaughlin, Jaclyn Marie McLaughlin, and Bradley Charles Sisler; brothers, Gov Brooks (Di) and Stephen Brooks; sisters, Elizabeth Ann Dougherty and Polly J. Cherundolo; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE. Services and interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s memory to the Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 903, Wilmington, DE 19801 or online by clicking here.
Beverly Ross
Barbara was my dear friend for over 36 years. We did much together and I loved every minute of it. I miss her terribly. I miss our phone calls and lunches together to keep in touch and hope and pray she’s safe in heaven all my love Beverly.
Jayne Waldridge
Rest in peace, Ethel. God has called another angel home. ♥️🙏♥️
Kathie Lenhoff
My dear friend of 67 years, we have made so many memories together from meeting you in the
7th grade at the old Newark Junior High to so many beach antics over the years , to our fabulous
trip to London to your visit with Radar to Colorado to visit Jack and I and your visits to Maine several
times. You will always be in my heart and thoughts, rest in peace my friend “Ethel” Love, Kathie
Patricia Simpson
Dawn & Lisa & family,
I live in the complex where your mother lived, I tried to help either dawn or Lisa with their tire one time at the gas station. I am so so sorry for your loss, may your mom rip. Always waved to her when she was out side very nice person.
Linda Pilesky Brady
So sorry to hear of Barbs passing. I went to school with her in Newark. She was so bubbly, and had such a beautiful smile. RIP. Sending prayers for her family.
Marjorie Correll Butler
Our deepest condolences to Barbie’s family. The Correll family has been wonderful friends with the Brook’s family for many years and know all the children. We loved the Brook’s family!!
Jim Brooks
Barbie, So many great memories of Grange Hall parties and family picnics. Thank you for all you did for the family and for the whole Newark community. You’ll be missed. With Love, Cousin Jim and Gail