Brenda Colleen McLaughlin

Brenda Colleen McLaughlin, of Talala, Oklahoma, passed away on January 18, 2026.

Brenda was born on April 20, 1957, in Grove, Oklahoma, the only daughter of Freddie and June Bauer. She graduated from Oologah–Talala High School and devoted her life to being a homemaker, a role that allowed her to be the heart and center of her family.

Brenda was active in her community, supporting the baseball booster club, the Oologah Quarterback Club, and the Oologah Mustang Round Up Club. She had a deep love for motorcycle trips, enjoying the open road and the freedom of traveling with those she loved. Brenda found peace in gardening, where she spent time tending flowers that reflected the care she gave to everyone around her. She was an accomplished quilter, pouring patience and creativity into every stitch. She cherished the quiet moments, conversation, and time spent with family.

A devoted mother, Brenda faithfully supported her sons in their high school sports. A glass of tea was always waiting for anyone who stopped by, and her home was a place of warmth and welcome.

Brenda leaves behind a legacy of love and happiness that was felt by everyone who met her and can be seen in everything she touched.

She was preceded in death by her father Freddie Bauer and her brother Steve Bauer.

Brenda is survived by her husband of 48 years, Rickey McLaughlin of Talala, Oklahoma; her sons and daughters-in-law, Todd and Sarah McLaughlin of Fulshear, Texas, Nick and Renee McLaughlin of Claremore, Oklahoma, and Brandon and Kathy McLaughlin of Oologah, Oklahoma; her grandchildren, Will McLaughlin, Mason McLaughlin, Tyler McLaughlin, Lindsey Zhang, Julia McLaughlin, Marley McLaughlin, Katie McLaughlin, and Amelia McLaughlin; and her great-children, Aria Zhang, Brooklyn Zhang, Beckham Zhang and Jensen McLaughlin. She is also survived by her mother, June Bauer; her brothers, Donnie Bauer, Leon Bauer, and Mike Bauer; along with countless extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at Collinsville Dolton Funeral Home Thursday January 22, 2026 from noon - 8 pm. The family will be present from 5 to 7 pm. Funeral services will be held Friday January 23, 2026 at 10:00 am at Oologah First Baptist Church. Interment to follow at Oakhill Cemetery in Oologah, OK.