Reverend John Edward McLaughlin

Rev. John Edward McLaughlin

March 15, 1936 – March 14, 2026

The Rev. John Edward McLaughlin passed peacefully into eternal life on March 14, 2026, one day before his 90th birthday. Born in Boston, he was the beloved son of Francis J. and Nora V (Hoar) McLaughlin and was baptized at St. Margaret Church in Dorchester.

He is survived by his brothers, Francis M. McLaughlin of West Roxbury, Eugene J. (Palma) McLaughlin of Dorchester, Richard M. (Carolyn) McLaughlin of Northborough, Maureen B. (James) Joyce of Cocoa, Florida, and Daniel P. McLaughlin of Dedham. In addition, he leaves multiple nieces and nephews spanning several generations, and his circle of family including those by affinity. He was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, James F. McLaughlin and Stephen V. McLaughlin.

Fr. McLaughlin grew up in a large and devoted Catholic family, one of seven brothers and one sister. His journey of faith was nurtured at home and further fostered at St. Patrick’s School in Roxbury, as an altar server. He lived his life guided by the words of Mother Seton, “Sweet is the providence that overrules us.” and “We are the children of eternity.” His mother instilled in him a deep sense of heaven’s promise, and his father often reminded him, “Don’t forget to kneel down and say your prayers.”

A gifted student, he attended Boston College High School (Class of 1953), and Boston College (Class of 1957), where he was among eleven students recognized with Greek honors for their academic excellence. While a young man, he recognized his vocational calling to God and began his studies in faith at St. John’s Seminary and was ordained a priest on Candlemas Day in 1962.

When asked what parish he belonged to he would reply, “The world is my parish.” Throughout his life, he served faithfully in many parishes across Massachusetts including St. Joseph’s in Holbrook, St. Bernard’s Parish in Concord, St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Hanson, and later as chaplain at Cardinal Spellman High School. He retired after many years of service at St. Benedict Parish in Somerville, where he often said, “God sent the world to him,” ministering to the faithful in twenty-seven languages.

A natural linguist with a deep appreciation for culture and faith, he became one of the founders of the Eastern Catholic Apostolate at Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish and helped establish Cumann na Gaeilge i mBoston, promoting Irish language and culture. For over fifty years he was active in the celebration of the Irish Mass in Boston.

Fr. McLaughlin was widely respected for his leadership through service to the Church and the community. Deeply committed to the dignity of human life, he served as Pro‑Life Director for both the Archdiocese and the United States. He was instrumental in bringing Project Rachel to Boston, offering healing and reconciliation to those affected by abortion. For many years, he also served as the National Director of the Holy Name Society. 

He will be remembered for his humility, scholarship, and his profound love for God and His people. Ever the constant teacher, he touched countless lives with his faith, kindness, and dedication to the Church through his decades of priestly service. His genuine gift for making friends with everyone he met was demonstrated by his ability to connect with people and to reflect God’s love onto them. He will be fondly remembered for his “Feast Day phone calls,” handwritten notes and constant “check-ins.” Slán abhaile, le cúnamh Dé, our faithful servant.

Visiting hours will be held at the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave., Needham, on Friday, March 20 from 3–7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Theresa of Avila Church, West Roxbury, on Saturday, March 21 at 10 am. Interment will follow in his family lot at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Needham.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to, “A Woman’s Choice Pregnancy Resource Center at awomanschoicecenter.com/donate

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