Russell William Mclaughlin

Entered into eternal rest on May 5, 2020, Russell William McLaughlin, 19, of Charleston, SC.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Monday, May 11, 2020, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Seating will be limited due to social distancing requirements. The service will also be livestreamed on the James A. McAlister Funerals & Cremation Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/JamesAMcAlisterInc/ ).

Russell was born in Charleston, SC on August 31, 2000, at Roper Hospital, a son of Angela Burgmeier McLaughlin and Craig Thomas McLaughlin. He was a 2019 graduate of Bishop England Catholic High School and had just completed his Freshman year at the University of South Carolina, working toward a degree in Criminal Justice.

Russell led a joyful life and spread that joy to others. He loved boating, the water and being with his friends. Russell made those around him better through his love, zest for life and humor. He had many “families”, from High School and club soccer, school groups and working at Triangle Char Bar just to name a few. Russell McLaughlin was simply a great person. A loving son, brother and friend to so many. A hard worker who when he set out to accomplish something, gave it his all. As he matured, he become a leader on the soccer field with his friends and in school. Russell did so many good things without asking for praise or attention. From donating blood to helping with Bishop England soccer camps and assisting others in time of need — all with his classic Russ Buss grin. We will  miss you Russell.

To our family: Russell was always the youngest and we believe that helped him strive to keep up and be the best version of himself he could be. His early life experiences formed the quiet leader and hard worker he became in his young adulthood.

To Russell’s friends: There are simply too many of you to name, but know Russell loved you all. He considered you part of his extended family — his people — his team. Russell wanted to foster the best in each of you and to help you succeed. Keep his love close throughout your lives.

Russell is survived by his parents, Craig and Angela McLaughlin, his brother, Emmett Thomas McLaughlin, his grandmothers, Joy Burgmeier and Kathleen K. McLaughlin as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to any of the following: The American Red Cross, The Charleston Animal Society or the National Down Syndrome Society.