Edward McLaurin, Jr.

Ralph Edward McLaurin, Jr., 72, passed away at Chatham Hospital, Thursday morning, March 24, 2022, in Siler City, NC. 

A native of Chatham County, NC, Edward was born May 29, 1949, to the late Irene Poe and Ralph Edward McLaurin, Sr.  He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, Michael Cunningham.  Edward graduated from Pittsboro High School, earned a B.S. in Business Administration and later a J.D., both from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Edward started a 30+ year-long law career in Pittsboro, NC as a partner at the firm of Barber, Holmes & McLaurin, eventually to become Holmes & McLaurin. He served on numerous community boards, including the Chatham County Soil & Water Conservation District Board for more than 30 years and the Chatham County ABC Board. He was a Mason at Columbus Lodge 102 and was an active member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, where he served on a multitude of committees and leadership roles, including Sunday School Superintendent, Administrative Council Chairman, and Pastor-Parish Committee Chairman.

Edward had many interests that he enjoyed, including woodworking and gardening (especially with heirloom tomatoes in the pursuit of the perfect tomato sandwich).  An ardent outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and he was an avid bird hunter.  He was very active and enjoyed running and coaching and playing baseball and softball.  He was a devoted Tar Heel fan and loved watching them play basketball, football, baseball, and softball.  He was probably the biggest fan of Mr. Ray Gooch’s fruitcake.

A devoted family man, Edward found no greater joy than being with his loved ones.  Edward is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sandra Brewer McLaurin; sons, Shane Brafford (Jordan) and Ralph Edward McLaurin, III; his daughter, Ginger Irene McLaurin Cunningham; grandson, Bryce Brafford; and sister, Teresa Bower (Doug). 

The services for Mr. McLaurin are private with Rev. Ray Gooch presiding.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorial contributions to be made in Edward’s memory to the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church “Renovation Fund,” 340 Landrum Creek Drive, Siler City, NC 27344.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Ruiz and the team at Chatham Hospital for their graciousness, compassion, and love shown towards Mr. McLaurin during the last days of his earthly journey.  God bless you all.