Harriet C. (Cheek) Loughlin

Mrs. Harriet C. (Cheek) Loughlin, age 90, a longtime Utican who most recently resided at the Masonic Care Community of NY, passed away on Saturday, March 11, 2006 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Her caring family was by her side at the time of her passing. Born in Seneca SC on May 24, 1915, Harriet was the daughter of the late Henry D. and Carrie H. (Earle) Cheek. She was raised and educated in Erwin TN. She continued her academic pursuits at University of Pennsylvania where she earned her degree in nursing and received her licensure as an R.N. It was at the university that she met Thomas Edward Loughlin, Sr. whom she married on September 19, 1937. Throughout their union of 68 years, Harriet and Thomas have been truly devoted and had a marvelous relationship. Immediately after she graduated, Harriet was given a supervisory position at the University of Pennsylvania. She and Thomas then spent several years residing in NYC. In 1950 they brought their family to Utica where they have lived ever since. As an exemplary wife and mother, Harriet considered her loved ones to be the foremost priority in her life. Her family was her greatest accomplishment. Propriety, entertaining, and education were her foundation for tirelessly establishing a proper upbringing for her children and grandchildren. Among her various interests, Harriet especially loved cooking and gardening. She also enjoyed playing the piano. She derived much pleasure and contentment from the family camp at Cedar Lake where she often indulged in one of her favorite pastimes, fishing, especially with her husband and family. At one time Mrs. Loughlin was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church. Mrs. Loughlin is survived by her husband, Thomas, Sr.; her sons, Thomas E. Loughlin, Jr. and Robert C. Loughlin, both of Utica; and her cherished grandchildren, Betsy L. Loughlin, Georgia C. Loughlin, and Benjamin S. Loughlin, all of Utica. Her survivors also include a sister, Elizabeth “Betsy” Camper of Heber Springs AK; and several nieces and nephews. In addition, the family is deeply grateful to two other special people who survive Harriet: Karen Robbins, a special friend and the mother of Betsy and Georgia; and Eve Valenzi, a loving friend and neighbor for the past 50 years. Mrs. Loughlin was predeceased by a sister, Henrietta Halliday; and 2 brothers, Ben Cheek and Robert Cheek, Sr. Harriet’s family extends its sincere appreciation to the staff and administrators of the Masonic Care Community of NY for the years of excellent and loving care they provided. Thanks also to the personnel of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for making Harriet’s last hours comfortable. In accordance with the family’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or services.

Harriet C. (Cheek) Loughlin

May 24, 1915 - March 11, 2006