Helen Marie (Thatch) McLaurine was born on June 18, 1937, in Pocahontas, Tennessee, to Norvinnia Thatch and Georgia Mae Joplin, both of whom have preceded her in death. Helen's life journey took her to Lima, Ohio, where she transitioned from this life on February 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.

Mrs. McLaurine dedicated many years of her life as a teacher’s aide with the Head Start Program. Her career was a testament to her passion for education and nurturing, influencing her children to embrace the values of teaching and mentoring others. She served as secretary of The Lima Christian Singing Session, a local Christian radio music ministry that aired for many years and was the recipient of the LCSS Christian Service Award July 1984. Mrs. Mclaurine received a Civilian Commendation Award from the Buckeye State Sheriffs' Association, December 6, 1997; the Tabernacle Baptist Church Unsung Hero Award October 18, 2008; and the Ebony Miles Promotions Mother of The Year Award, May 13, 2018. As a church mother of Providence Missionary Baptist Church, she found her strength and inspiration through her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Mrs. McLaurine was known for being very proud of her children and their accomplishments. She was especially proud of her daughters, The Fantastic McLaurine Sisters, and a profound part of their music journey. She possessed a welcoming spirit, never met a stranger, and was always eager to share the goodness of her Lord and Savior.

Mrs. McLaurine's heart swelled with love for her family. She is mourned by her sons Eddie Pritchett Jr, Aaron (Veronica) McLaurine, Dr. Norvinnia McLaurine, George Mclaurine, Jeremiah McLaurine, and Demetrius Harvey; her daughters Nellie Foster, Mary McLaurine-Glover, Marian (Stacy) McLaurine-Wrice, Margie Pritchett, Hannah (Billy) Green, Darlene Pritchett-Pitts, Linda Harvey, and Tracey Harvey; a special cousin, Jessie Irvin; and one special niece, Shirley Johnson. Among her descendants, she raised three grandchildren—Mary Ann M. (Adam) Lail, Quincy Pritchett, and Jerain Johnson—with love and dedication. The McLaurine family lineage expands with pride, including 95 grandchildren, 116 great-grandchildren, and 50 great-great-grandchildren, alongside a host of other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Eddie L. Pritchett Sr and M.C. George McLaurine; sons Albert Perry, W.E. McLaurin, Sam McLaurin, Archie McLaurin, George McLaurin, Paul McLaurin, James McLaurin, Fred McLaurin, Michael Harvey, and David Harvey; daughters Martha Edwards, Luethel McLaurine, Sherry Pritchett, and Gwendolyn McLaurine; her sister, Sadie Fields; and her brother, Calvin Troy Thatch.

As we reflect on the profound impact Mrs. McLaurine had in her community and on those fortunate enough to share in her life, we are reminded of the lessons she imparted—love, faith, and the importance of family. Her legacy shall continue through the countless hearts she has touched.

A viewing will be held at In Faith Ministries, located at 1575 East High Street, Lima, OH, on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM until time of services. As we gather to honor her life, we are reminded of the love and joy she brought into this world, forever shaping our lives with her kindness and unwavering faith.

Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the McLaurine Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com