John Thomas McLaughlin

John Thomas McLaughlin, 66, passed away peacefully after a sudden illness on August 5, 2022. He was born on January 12, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to parents John Thomas and Anne M. "Nancy" McLaughlin.

A devoted civil servant, John worked for decades as a Mechanical Engineer P.E. for the Navy, retiring as the Head of the Mechanical Engineering Branch of the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Atlantic Division. Respected and beloved by a large network of peers in the engineering community, he then enjoyed a successful private sector career at CH2M Hill, followed by Jacobs, serving as their Navy Client Account Manager. His work took him all over the world. Iceland, Greece, Italy, Hawaii, and San Diego were just a few favorite destinations. He was well known for airfield fueling projects and energy conservation, and even more importantly, as a mentor and friend who was always willing to help a colleague.

John loved music and sports, and he was a fervent supporter of his alma mater, Old Dominion University. He was thrilled to see his youngest son attend and graduate from ODU, and they shared season tickets for multiple sports and traveled near and far to support the Monarchs. An excellent chef, he found great joy in cooking for loved ones, especially in the form of extravagant holiday feasts. Crab cakes, steak, and "dad potatoes" were just a few of his signature dishes. He was a storyteller extraordinaire and was always quick with a joke, anecdote, or kind word.

John was a devoted husband and father, and enthusiastically supported sporting events, performances, graduations, trips, and countless other family activities. Whether helping with calculus homework, coaching a basketball team, or cheering louder than the rest of the crowd during a concert or graduation, John was the biggest fan and supported his children in everything they did. He was their cheerleader in every moment, big or small. He will be remembered as a hard worker with a steadfast commitment to his family and a kind, loving heart.

John is survived by his wife, Debra Banks McLaughlin, children Jeffrey McLaughlin, Kelly McLaughlin and husband Zachary Herrmann, and Timothy McLaughlin, and sisters Sheila McLaughlin and Mary Stuck. The family is thankful for Bob, Doug, and the many other long-term friends who were special in John's life.

The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:30pm on Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Great Neck Chapel. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at Star of the Sea Catholic Church, with a burial to follow in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be offered to the family at

www.hollomon-brown.com.