Sherman Levitt McLaughlin, Sr., Sandston, VA

Sherman Levitt McLaughlin, Sr., 85, of Sandston, went to be with his Lord on March 3, 2022. Affectionally known as "Mr. Fantastic," he enjoyed being optimistic and sharing his cheerful disposition with everyone he met, even as he courageously lived with declining health for several years, resulting from Parkinson's Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. He married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Marie Firesheets McLaughlin and was blessed with nearly 64 years of happy marriage. He was preceded in death by his parents, Laurel and Fannie McLaughlin; and brothers, Johnny, Bert and Ralph McLaughlin. He is survived by his wife, Marie; children, Sherman McLaughlin Jr. (Christine) and Cathy Westerman (Troy); grandchildren, Jason McLaughlin (Carey), Ashley McLaughlin, Valerie Bess (Taylor) and Seth Westerman; great-granddaughter, Cora Whetstone; brother, Kent McLaughlin (Bonnie); sisters-in-law, Elsie McLaughlin and Barbara Firesheets; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Sherman was a graduate of New Kent High School and the University of Richmond. He served in the U.S. Army during the Berlin Crisis. He retired from a 40-year career in electronics as one of the first in Virginia to be trained to service computers as the computer industry was born. After retirement, Sherman and Marie traveled to all 50 states. In addition to his love for a road trip, he enjoyed stained glass and woodworking and especially woodturning. He was also dedicated to ministering to grieving families and inviting people and welcoming people to his church. He attended Sandston Baptist Church for a period spanning 80 years, where he served as a deacon for over 55 years and cheerfully served in numerous other capacities. He adored his many friends at Sandston Baptist Church, as well as his friends and neighbors from the Sandston community. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, Sandston Masonic Lodge #216 AF&AM and was a Past Master and Trustee. He was a member of the American Association of Woodturners, Richmond Woodturners and Tidewater Woodturners.