McLaughlin Mortuary

12/23/2025

An obituary will be forthcoming.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 1:00pm at Live Oak Memorial Park, in Crestview with Mr. Al Stearns officiating.

View Teresa Ann Wiley's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/23/2025

FWB NAMED TOP 10 DESTINATION: Fort Walton Beach has been named one of Expedia's top 10 destinations for 2026, marking the only Florida location to make the global list as traveler interest in the area surged 45%.

The designation, revealed in Expedia's "Unpack '26" travel trends report, places the Emerald Coast destination alongside nine other locations worldwide, including Big Sky, Montana; Okinawa, Japan; and Sardinia, Italy. Fort Walton Beach is one of only two U.S. destinations on the list.

"It's humbling for us all," said Jennifer Adams, Okaloosa County Tourism Director. "When I took over eight years ago, we didn't have the partnerships that we have now, such as with the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. I think that if we hadn't ever gotten to that point -- where we are all working together -- we never would've been recognized like this."

While Adams markets the broader Destin-Fort Walton Beach destination, Expedia's specific recognition of Fort Walton Beach highlights the city's growing appeal to travelers.

Adams attributes the growing interest to a strategic shift in how the destination markets itself — moving beyond being "just a beach destination in summertime" to offering year-round experiences that give visitors reasons to explore beyond the water.

The city offers a different pace and character than its neighboring communities, with easy access to water activities, museums that tell the area's military and cultural history, and a downtown food scene that has quietly become a draw in its own right.

"I think that more people are discovering Fort Walton Beach as they search our overall destination," Adams said. "They're finding new things. They're finding Liza Jackson Park, they're finding Beach Weekend downtown, they're going down to The Landing. Plus, Fort Walton has a great food scene."

The city's location provides strategic advantages. With the Air Force Armament Museum — the only facility in the U.S. dedicated to the display of Air Force armament — Fort Walton Beach attracts military history enthusiasts. The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island offers restaurants, beach access, live music and movies on the beach. The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier provides anglers a prime fishing location, while charters and pontoon rentals operate from Fort Walton Beach, giving visitors access to the emerald waters.

For Adams, the Expedia recognition validates a philosophy of staying small while doing big things.

"When I got here, the destination got so big that we forgot how to be small. It's okay to be small," Adams said. "You can be a small destination and have the value of these other big ones."

🔗 link to the full interview with Jennifer Adams below...

12/23/2025

12/23/2025

12/23/2025

Looking for a meaningful holiday project to share with your family or friends? Take a look at these creative ideas, and be sure to tag us in your festive fun!

• Create a “memory ornament” that showcases a beloved photo or an inspiring quote
• Put together a small scrapbook filled with your favorite holiday memories
• Capture family members recounting stories about someone who has made a significant impact on their lives

These thoughtful activities can turn this season into a wonderful opportunity for reflection and connection. Wishing you all a joyful holiday season!

12/23/2025

12/23/2025

December is a vibrant month, brimming with families celebrating their cherished traditions and sharing heartwarming stories. Our team would like to shine a light on a few inspirations that truly resonate with us:

1) We are profoundly touched by the remarkable impact that a single act of kindness can have, creating ripples that echo through generations.
2) We find immense joy in watching families forge new traditions in honor of their loved ones.

We are genuinely thankful to be part of our community during these significant moments. ♥️

12/22/2025

🐾✨ Feline Festive Adoption Event One Week Away! ✨🐾
Hosted by Save Our Cats and Kittens (SOCKS)

📅 Saturday, December 20
⏰ 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 498 Carmel Drive, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
📍 Behind the SOCKS shelter in the Catmosphere building

Get ready to celebrate the season with a Feline Festive gathering full of whiskers, purrs, and holiday cheer! 😻 Four amazing rescues are teaming up to help cats and kittens find loving homes before the holidays.

🐱 Cats & Kittens Available From:
✨ SOCKS
✨ PAWS (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society)
✨ Pet Welfare
✨ Whiskers on the Emerald Coast

Whether you're searching for a snuggly cuddle buddy or a playful kitten to brighten your home, this event is the purr-fect place to meet your match. Every adoption opens the door for more animals in need.

Come find your new best friend — and make this holiday truly Feline Festive! 🎁💜🐾

12/22/2025

December is a bustling month, filled with families sharing their unique traditions and heartwarming stories. Our team would like to highlight a few things that inspire us the most:

1) We are deeply moved by the profound impact one person's kindness can have, creating ripples that resonate through generations.
2) We take great joy in witnessing families establish new traditions that pay tribute to their loved ones.

We are truly grateful to accompany our community during these meaningful moments. ♥️