Rita Kay McLaughlin, née Strubinger, of Maryville, Illinois, passed away surrounded by family on June 1, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born on November 27, 1950, Rita was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Georgia Strubinger; her devoted husband, James McLaughlin; and her brother, Mark Strubinger.

Rita was one of seven children and cherished the lifelong memories she shared with her brothers and sisters. Her greatest joy came from being a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by her daughter, Rhonda (Art) Phetsadasack, her son, Jason (Corinne) Madden; and daughter Tara (Jeffrey) Randle; her 6 grandchildren: Brandon, Loghan, Austin, Cheyenne, Hunter, and Paige. In addition to her children and grandchildren, Rita leaves behind her loving siblings Charles “Bobby”Strubinger, Deanna Wappler, Cherie Byrd, Linda Keck, and Tina Hayes along with many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Rita found happiness in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She loved tending to her garden, especially her roses, and found great joy in feeding and watching the birds and squirrels that visited her home—particularly the cardinals she adored. She also enjoyed shopping for clothes and jewelry, filling her closets with pieces she loved, and never passing up an opportunity to go out to restaurants with family. Above all, she treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren, who were the light of her world.

Those who knew Rita will remember her kindness, her sense of style and creativity, and the love of her family. They find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with her husband, parents, and brother, and that the love she shared will remain with them always

A memorial mass will be held 11:00am, Monday, June 29, 2026 at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Collinsville, Illinois where family will receive friends from 10:00am until the hour of service.

Mrs. McLaughlin will be laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

A luncheon and gathering will be held at approximately 1:30 p.m. at the family residence: 5 Sher-Nan Drive, Maryville, Illinois.

The family is being served by HERR Funeral Home, 501 West Main Street, Collinsville, Illinois  62234.