Ronald J. McLaughlin

Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | November 19, 2025

Ronald J. McLaughlin, age 88, of White Oak, passed away on November 17, 2025, at the Hemsley House of McCandless (North Hills, PA). Born March 27, 1937, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late James and Clara (Kappler) McLaughlin and the husband of the late Jane Wilson McLaughlin.  Ronald graduated from McKeesport VoTech and proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to serving his country. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with U.S. Steel, where he worked in the research division. Known for his remarkable mechanical skills, Ronald could fix anything, earning him the admiration of many. Recognizing Ron's talents, lead engineers often requested that he accompany them into coal mines deep beneath the surface of the earth to detect, measure, and resolve noise pollution problems.  Throughout his life, Ronald was a man of diverse interests. In his younger years, he found joy on the tennis court; later in retirement, he transitioned to golf. He also cherished the time spent at the gun range with his sons, Timothy and Ronald, sharing laughter and life lessons along the way. Family was the center of his world, and he devoted himself wholeheartedly to caring for his beloved wife Jane during her long battle with cancer, embodying the true essence of love and support.

For more than 40 years, Ronald also had the comfort and companionship of living next to his loving brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dr. Ernest and Gail Gagorik-neighbors who became an important part of his daily life. Gail, his wife's sister, often said that Ron's fingerprints are in every room of their house as he helped them with countless home improvement projects and repair problems. There was nothing Ron couldn't do well with his hands.  He is survived by his sons, Ronald (Esther) McLaughlin and Timothy (Filomena) McLaughlin; and grandchildren Lea, Connor, Dr. Megan, Matthew, Cullen, and Michala McLaughlin. In addition to his parents and wife, Ronald was preceded in death by four brothers and a sister.  Viewing will be on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 3:00 to 8:00 PM at the Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory in White Oak. Viewing will continue next morning from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, followed by a short service. Afterwards, burial will be at St. Mary Polish Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.

Chris Odasso, Supervisor

Originally published November 19, 2025.

Other deaths:
"Mattie Lillie Louise …" ||