James Richard “Ricky” McLaughlin, 69, of Magnolia, AR passed away Friday, February 14, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

     Ricky was born on July 26, 1955, in Magnolia to the late James Houston “Happy” McLaughlin and Mildred Marie (Gatlin) McLaughlin. He was a service tech for Ark-La Gas and retired after 23 years and after retiring he went to work as a parts manager for Steve’s Outdoor Sports.

     Ricky was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He enjoyed hunting and the many years of camaraderie with his deer camp buddies (who nicknamed him ‘Whitey) at the Lamartine Deer Camp.

     He is survived by his wife, Becky McLaughlin of Magnolia; daughters, Stephanie Peppers of Grapevine, TX, and Lisa McMahen of Magnolia; grandchildren, Kirsten Peppers, Rylie Peppers, and Brody Peppers of Grapevine, Phoebe Atkinson, and McKenzie Atkinson of Magnolia; sister, Linda Walker of Magnolia; and a host of nephews, nieces, extended family, and friends.

     A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. in Magnolia with John Ford officiating. Visitation with viewing will be Monday, February 17 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment of ashes will be held at the New Hope Cemetery at a later date.

     Honorary pallbearers will be Brody Peppers, Kerry Pipkin, Scott Croft, John Ford, and Mike Walker.

Memorials may be made to the New Hope Cemetery, PO Box 252, McNeil, AR 71752 or to McNeil Methodist Church, 305 Olive, McNeil, AR 71752.