Elizabeth Loughlin

Elizabeth Keyland "Keyly" Loughlin, of Blawnox, feeling loved by many, passed away on March 1, 2021, with her beloved friends and family by her side. "I am at peace, and have no fear." Born to the late Joseph Michael Loughlin and Susan Loughlin (Probst), on July 12, 1969, in Springfield, MA, the youngest of three daily fought her siblings in the blame game, with her brother Paul usually serving as her wingman, co-conspirator, and many times as the fall guy. Besides her beloved parents Michael and Susan, Keyly was pre-deceased by her brothers Paul Hutchinson Loughlin and John Murray Loughlin. Ms. Loughlin, 51, grew up a spunky kid in the Village of Ridgewood NJ and attended Slippery Rock University, PA where she made life-long friends and graduated with a degree in Communications in 1992. Keyly also attended the Queen Margaret College in Edinburgh in 1991, fending off many a son of Scotland while there. She was especially proud of the Masters in Education degree she earned from Chatham University in 2010. She is survived by her son, William Loughlin McNamara ("SUCH a good boy"); and his father, James Francis McNamara ("the finest man I know"); many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins; and countless friends near and far who enjoyed a daily virtual cup of coffee with her and her larger-than-life personality and sometimes colorful language. Known for her quick wit and love of busting chops, Keyly did everything with love but would not put up with your BS. "Stop talking! Stop. Talking." Love and laughter was her code, and she handled life's ups and downs with grace, dignity, and a touch of sass. The love and pride for her son knew no bounds and she loved updating "her people" with his hockey accomplishments. She loved her friends, a good cup of coffee, a good story, ice cream (and debating which brand was best), and discussing the Pittsburgh Steelers. An expert napper who loved to take her daily "drifty", Keyly knew the value of being well-rested, in order to speak to the many people who called on her daily for advice, support, candor, and accountability. Her largest character flaw was being a fan of the Boston Red Sox. Nobody is perfect. Ms. Loughlin was a career educator and loved teaching children. She started her teaching career in the City of Pittsburgh School District, and in later years worked at the Bairel Family YMCA, following in her mother's footsteps to serve and educate young children in the many youth programs offered. A champion of the underdog, she loved a good comeback story, having lived one herself. She expressed much gratitude towards the doctors and nurses of the UPMC - Hillman Cancer Center for all of their help and kindness. Special thanks to the many strong women in her life who surrounded her with love and support during her final days. You know who you are, and you are appreciated. Keyly dedicated her life to the service and education of our youth. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in honor of Keyly to an Educational Institution, YMCA, or Youth Charity of your choice. A private memorial will be held at the Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home, 930 Center Avenue, Blawnox. She will be missed. She will be remembered. And she will forever be loved by those who knew her. Her favorite line from her favorite Simon and Garfunkel song was "just drop off the key, Lee / and set yourself free." You are free, Key, you are free. P.S. A message from all of Keyly's friends and family: F*ck you cancer

Elizabeth Loughlin

July 12, 1969 - March 1, 2021