Arlene Marie McLaughlin

"Renee"

Passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2024, in Dallas, TX. She was born October 17, 1942, in Jolliet, Illinois to Marie (Nee Sealy) and Alex Jordan. Arlene was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many.

She is survived by her loving son, Jody (Sterling) O'Donnell; cherished grandchildren, Reese and Drake O'Donnell; sisters, Geraldine McCarney, Marilyn Warren, Patricia (Richard) Schonfeld and brothers Richard (Karen) Jordan and Raymond (Kathy) Jordan.

Preceded in death by her son, Thomas O'Donnell (d.1984), and spouse, Dr. John J. McLaughlin (d. 2020).

Arlene grew up in Joliet, IL where she attended St. Francis Academy, and received a bachelor's degree from Lewis University. She worked at Stateville State Prison for 27 dedicated years. During her career at Stateville she started as the Warden's secretary, and upon receiving her degree moved up to management within the prison. Arlene's last 10 years at Stateville she managed death row, and executions. She lived in Chicago after retirement and traveled around the world. In Arlene's later years her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she was happy to be called "Renee" by them. She enjoyed reading, living part time in Dallas with her family, attending her grandkids games, dinners, and holidays. Over the last several months Arlene was diagnosed with Leukemia and was receiving treatment in Dallas. She was courageous in her battle with this disease and remained positive throughout her treatment.

Renee will be missed terribly and will forever be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SARA a no kill animal shelter in Arlene's name, PO Box 813 Seguin, TX 78156-0813 or online at https://www.sarasanctuary.org/give.html

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, 10:00am with everyone meeting at St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church, 702 N Broadway St. Joliet, IL 60435. Following Mass Entombment will take place at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Romeoville, IL. Visitation Friday, November 8, 2024, in the O'Neil Funeral Home Chapel 1105 E. 9th St. Lockport, IL 60441 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm.

Family and friends can sign the online guestbook at www.oneilfuneralhome.com