Linda Ann MacLaughlin

Linda Ann (Vento) MacLaughlin, age 70, a longtime resident of Chelmsford, passed away at Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln on Aug. 8 surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Glenn A. MacLaughlin, with whom she enjoyed 37 years of marriage.

Linda was born in Boston on Feb. 28, 1952, and was the daughter of the late Anthony and Barbara A. (Patch) Vento. She was raised in Dorchester and moved to Hopkinton during high school, graduating in 1970.

Early in her career she worked as an administrative assistant, and in 1975 she started as a business assistant and associate producer at Digital Equipment Corporation, where she would eventually meet her husband. Before retirement, Linda found her most satisfying position as the registrar at Chelmsford High School. She was never happier than when she was tirelessly working for the needs, advancement and career path of her students.

In 1985 Linda paused her career to start her most challenging and fulfilling venture, raising her son and daughter. To Linda, raising her family was her true life’s work and greatest accomplishment. She felt immense pride and gratitude for her life and for her children. Linda stepped in as a mother to others and was lovingly referred to as “Momma Mac” by many of her children’s friends. She was a constant source of support, advice and hugs for anyone who needed it.

Linda loved to travel and garden. Her passion, however, was quilting. Over time she became a true artisan. Dozens of her creations adorn homes across New England and the country. Her most satisfying pieces were the scores and scores of infant quilts she created to the delight of her family and friends. Her love for creating and gifting quilts spoke to who she was at her core. She was incredibly gifted and motivated to spread love and beauty to others.

In addition to her loving husband, Linda is survived by her son, Sean MacLaughlin and wife Megan Foscaldi; her daughter, Tracy Haskard and husband Nicholas; her brothers, John and Nicholas Vento; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Sadly, Linda was predeceased by her brothers Anthony and Joseph Vento.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, Aug. 14, from 2-4 p.m. at the Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home, 24 Worthen Street, Chelmsford. Interment will be held on Monday, Aug. 15, at 11 a.m. at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, 185 Lake Street, Peabody. Kindly meet at the cemetery gate. All are welcome to attend. A reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please spread Linda’s message of love by donating to your favorite charity or to the Friends of Mass General Cancer Center.

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