Julia A. McLaughlin, 67, of Bradford, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Born April 22, 1959, in Bradford, she was a daughter of Steve Platko and the late Sue Ann (Karrasch) Platko. Julia was a 1977 graduate of Bradford Area High School.
On September 10, 1977, she married the love of her life, Jeffrey J. McLaughlin, at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church. He survives.
Following their marriage, Julia devoted herself to supporting her husband throughout his military career, making homes together in several places across the United States, including Arizona, Colorado, and Florida. Wherever life took them, Julia created a warm and loving home for her family.
After returning to Bradford, Julia began a career with Zippo Manufacturing Company, where she worked for 31 years before retiring.
Julia dedicated her life to her family. She found joy in the simplest things and cherished the time she spent with those she loved. She was known for her beautiful smile and infectious laugh, which could brighten the lives of everyone around her. Her gentle spirit carried her through life, leaving a lasting impression through her kindness, compassion, and unconditional love. Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.
Surviving, in addition to her father, Steve, and her husband of nearly 49 years, Jeff, are her daughter, Emily McLaughlin; three sisters, Cynthia (the late William) McEwen, Lorraine (Michael) Hannon, and Becky (Kenneth) Yohe; two brothers, John Platko and Mark (Kelly) Platko, all of Bradford; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Julia was preceded in death by her mother, Sue Ann Platko; her son, Brian M. McLaughlin, who passed away August 23, 2022; and her brother, James Platko.
A private celebration of Julia’s life will be held for family and invited guests at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com.