Michael McLaughlin was born July 4, 1955, in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Monroe and Elease McLaughlin. Michael lived his adventurous childhood in Jacksonville, Florida, where he attended local public schools and graduated from William M. Raines, Class of 1974. At Raines High School, Michael was an All-American athlete, competing in track & field, football, swimming, and diving. On July 29, 2002, Michael was joined in holy matrimony to Felicia Brown, and to this union two children were born, Myia and Myles. Michael was a professional truck driver transporting goods and cargo locally for over 35 years. An avid fisherman Michael spent much of his free time fishing the various waterways of Jacksonville, Florida.

Michael was also a talented drummer and he spent over twenty years playing the drums for Central Metropolitan CME Church. With family by his side, Michael transitioned to be with the Lord. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 21 years Felicia Brown McLaughlin; children Paul Mason (Monique), April McLaughlin, Allison McLaughlin, Myia McLaughlin, and Myles McLaughlin; brothers Donald McLaughlin, Bishop Vaughn McLaughlin (Narlene), Matthew McLaughlin (Valerie), and Kenneth McLaughlin; two aunts Mrs. Pecolia Taylor, and Mrs. Marie Young; father and mother-in-law Freddie and Oriole Brown; brother-in-law Freddie Brown, Jr. (Angelica); four godchildren Jahvis Sykes, Cameron Perry, Victoria Perry, and Alexandria Perry; four grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.