George McClaughry Jr., 96, a lifelong West Brighton resident who is remembered as a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by his children on July 12, 2024 at the Addeo Hospice Residence.
He was born on June 30, 1928 to George and Susan McClaughry. At the age of 17, he left Curtis High School early to enlist in the military. George served in the US Army from January 1946 to July 1947 in the occupation of Japan as a surgical technician and paratrooper in the 11th Airborne Division, where he earned a World War II Victory Medal and an Army of Occupation Medal-Japan.
After returning from the service, George’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Rosemary McLauchlan while they were playing Bingo. They fell in love and married on September 13, 1953. Together, George and Rose began their family on Delafield Ave where their 3 daughters, Susan, Lynne and Karen were born. They then settled into their forever home on Raymond Place where George and Tommy were born and raised. George was the quintessential fun dad on the block, always finding ways to bring happiness to his family such as was packing the neighborhood kids into the family station wagon for sleigh riding or ice skating at Martling's Pond. His commitment to faith was evident in his role as a devout parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church and instilled his strong Catholic beliefs in his family.
When George was a teenager, his parents took the family on a summer vacation to Cranberry Lake in Byram, New Jersey, a place that became an essential part of the McClaughry family. Eighty years later, Cranberry Lake remains a cherished summer gathering spot for much of the family, with his great-grandchildren now representing the fifth generation to enjoy “The Lake” for the summers. George spent decades as a governor of Cranberry Lake Community Club. He organized and ran numerous activities for both kids and adults alike throughout the years. Generations knew him as “the voice” of the lake announcing swim meets and field days. We are all so lucky and thankful that he played a crucial role in establishing this beloved family tradition, where so many have made wonderful memories and continue to do so.
He spent 23 years in management at A&P before transitioning to a 25-year career as a Registered Representative with Prudential. Upon retiring in 1991, George dedicated his time to traveling, reading, playing golf, watching his grandchildren's activities, and enjoying summers at “The Lake” and winters in Pinellas Park, Florida.
George had a deep love for dancing and was known for his quick feet on the dance floor. Whether it was a lively tune or a slow ballad, he embraced every opportunity to dance, especially at family weddings. He created cherished memories with his grandchildren during vacations to Disney World. He also brightened their Sunday mornings by dropping off rolls and donuts, a tradition they eagerly looked forward to. He always enjoyed his “coffee klatches”. His unwavering support was felt deeply as he cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines at their swim meets and other sporting events, always proud of their accomplishments. George also loved the holidays and spending them with his large family. He is famous for his crumb cake and his Easter Bunny cake creations.
For the past six years, George resided at the Esplanade in Staten Island, NY. He found joy in participating in arts and crafts sessions and eagerly called the numbers for the Bingo games for his fellow residents.
He is survived by his 5 children, Susan(Louis) DeMuth, Lynne(Donald) Walsh, Karen McClaughry, George(Gerilyn) McClaughry III, and Thomas(Fran) McClaughry, 14 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, and a brother, Thomas McClaughry and countless nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Rosemary in 2008 and his siblings Mildred Porretta, Charles McClaughry, and Doris Callahan and great granddaughter baby Eleanor.
Visitation will be held at Casey Funeral Home at 350 Slosson Ave. Staten Island, NY 10314 on Tuesday, July 16th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm followed by a Christian burial on Wednesday, July 17th at 10:00am at Blessed Sacrament Church at 1091 Forest Ave.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the following organizations:
Addeo Hospice Residence: Make check payable to SIUH Foundation and send to 78 Meisner Ave. Staten Island, New York 10306 in Memory of George McClaughry in memo on check
Save Our Bridge: https://www.saveourbridge.net/donate
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