George Francis McLaughlin

George Francis McLaughlin, 94, a strong, caring, and selfless man who always put other people before himself, left this world peacefully on December 26, 2020 at The Mayflower at Winter Park, Florida. George was born in New York City to James T and Helen (Voght) McLaughlin on March 13, 1926. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister Virginia, his son Thomas, Tom’s wife Patsy, and the love of his life and wife of 72 years, Helen. His studies included Brooklyn Tech, Union College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, and, later, Rollins College. In 1941, he enlisted with the USN and served until WWII ended in 1945. It was at the Naval Station Great Lakes Chapel on September 27, 1945 that George married his childhood sweetheart and life-long partner, Helen. In 1960,George moved his family to Central Florida to join Martin Company (later known as Martin Marietta, then Lockheed Martin) as a Design Engineer. George’s career with Lockheed Martin spanned 28 years from 1960-1988 when he retired. In 1961 George became a life-long member of the newly founded parish of St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church (Altamonte Springs, FL), which remained his home parish until his death. For 50 years, from 1961-2011, George and his woodcrafts supported the SMM CommunityFest. For 56 years, from 1964 until his death, George was a Knight in the Bishop Thomas J. Grady Council #5618 Knights of Columbus. He was a Mass Door Greeter and Usher; he was active in the Adult Choir, K.I.S.S.M. senior transportation, and Grotto Environmentalists. George was a team member in the completion of 14 houses for Habitat for Humanity. A true disciple volunteer, George gave himself whole-heartedly. He was inducted into the Order of Saint Mary Magdalen in 2012. It is a great loss we feel as we say goodbye to but also celebrate the life of a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. George was devoted to his wife and family. He was the man his children could always turn to for guidance and support. He taught them to accept others, to do the right thing, to use reason and logic, and above all, to love. George is survived by his loving and devoted children Patrick (Suzanne) McLaughlin, Denise S. (Don) Barnes, Theresa (William) Kinane, and Ann Honbarrier, 11 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren, along with many loving nieces, nephews and friends. “A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” (Maya Angelou) His family celebrates his life each day and welcomes you to share in the love he generously gave us all. Due to the COVID pandemic, plans for a memorial service will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, George’s family suggests a gift to Habitat for Humanity in memory of George’s dedication to providing homes and futures for others. The family of George Francis McLaughlin invites you to leave a message of condolence on the Tribute Wall created in his loving memory.

George Francis McLaughlin

March 13, 1926 - December 26, 2020