Elaine M. McLaughlin, 78, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025.

Elaine was born on April 21, 1947, in Toms River, New Jersey, to James C. and Eleanor (Mullaney) McLaughlin. At an early age, she moved to Naugatuck, Connecticut, where she made her lifelong home. She attended St. Francis of Assisi School and was a graduate of Naugatuck High School.

Elaine pursued higher education with great dedication, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Southern Connecticut State University, and later completing an advanced degree at Central Connecticut State University. She devoted 35 years of her professional life to the Naugatuck Public School System, where she taught at Andrew Avenue School, Western School, and Hop Brook School. Elaine was deeply committed to education and took great pride in her work as a teacher, positively impacting generations of students.

A proud member of MENSA, Elaine was known for her sharp intellect and quick wit. Outside of her career, she cherished time spent reading, traveling and visiting with her close circle of friends. She will be fondly remembered for her kind and generous heart, her witty sense of humor, and her love of all God’s creatures—especially her treasured horses.

Elaine is survived by her brother, James C. McLaughlin Jr., and his wife, Pamela, as well as her many nieces, nephews, and godchildren, whom she loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Elaine’s memory to Serenity Farm Horse Rescue, where her remaining horse, Laney, will live out her life receiving the best care. Donations may be sent to Serenity Farm Horse Rescue, 92 Minortown Rd., Woodbury, CT 06798.

Visitation will be held on Friday December 19, 2025 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Naugatuck Valley Memorial/Fitzgerald Zembruski Funeral Home, 240 North Main Street, Naugauck.  Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery.  To send an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.naugauckvalleymemorial.com