Rosemary Slavik

Rosemary McLaughlin Slavik, a devoted educator, volunteer, and member of the Bahá’í Faith, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 97. She was born on May 3, 1928, in Toledo, Ohio, the daughter of the late John Edward McLaughlin and Beulah Leon (Bechtel) McLaughlin.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles L. Slavik, with whom she shared a joyful life of travel, music, and spiritual devotion. She was also preceded by her siblings: John William McLaughlin, James Richard McLaughlin, Robert Joseph McLaughlin, Kathleen Ash, and Patrick Francis McLaughlin. She is survived by many much-loved nieces, nephews, and their children, whose lives she enriched with her warmth, intellect, and generosity.
A graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and the St. Louis Montessori Institute, Rosemary spent her career as a passionate educator in both public elementary schools and the Edwardsville Montessori School. Even in retirement, her dedication to service continued through volunteer work with Anderson Hospital, Faith in Action, the Edwardsville Public Library, and Lovejoy Library at SIUE.

Rosemary was a devoted and active member of the Bahá’í Faith in Edwardsville. The Bahá’í Faith teaches the principles of equality, peace, and service to humanity—values that Rosemary embraced throughout her life. An avid reader and lifelong student of religious history and interfaith understanding, she brought thoughtful reflection and open-hearted kindness to every conversation.

Arrangements are being handled by Weber-Rodney Funeral Home. A private burial will be followed by a Bahá’í memorial service at the Fuller Dome on the SIUE campus on Sunday, August 10th at 4:00 p.m.  Condolences may be expressed online at weberfuneralhome.com.