Obituaries

Gary L. McLaughlin of Randolph, Osterville MA and Kalispell MT passed peacefully on May 27, 2017.

Extraordinary husband and devoted partner to wife Jane (McGilvray). Gary was the son of the late Leo and Phyllis of Dennis. Brother of Dan and wife Aileen of Quincy, Glenn and wife Ellen of Pembroke, Lee of Dennis; and is also survived by his aunts Nancy Fitzgerald and Alice Hallisey, nieces, nephews, neighbors, friends and his MSP family.

Gary attended Quincy public schools and Boston State College. Joining the civilian ranks of the Massachusetts State Police, Gary was identified as 510, to which many of his MSP family commonly referred. A long-time dispatcher, Gary extended his management skills to finish his career as Communications Director at headquarters. Guest lecturer at the State Police Academy and Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Council, he provided course of instruction in Critical Incident Management and Radio discipline. Union Executive Board member, Chief Steward and Chief negotiator, Gary served a three-year term as Secretary Treasurer of S.E.I.U. Local 285.

Gary demonstrated tireless efforts coordinating emergency rescue response to the 1982 World Airways Flight 30 crash at Logan Airport. Commended by the Board of Awards and written commendation from Governor King. Recognized for outstanding performance in his coordinated response to a 1989 Boston shooting under challenging circumstances, he received the Manuel Carballo Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service as well as the State Police Association of Massachusetts Bull Dog Award. He was also instrumental in numerous Interpol efforts resulting in the location of missing persons internationally. Committed to the efforts of military servicemen in his employ, Gary worked with the families of veterans deployed providing comfort to many and was proudly recognized as a Patriotic Employer by the National Committee for support to the Guard and Reserve. A member of the NRA, AOPA, and the Braintree rifle and pistol club and an accomplished pilot, Gary soloed in September of 1994, again an experience he shared with his close friends. He was an aviation enthusiast and numismatist, as well as a certified firearms instructor, passing on his passion with friends and neighbors. After 35 years of public service he retired to enjoy a new life of joy and adventure. Gary enjoyed to fish, golf, and travel but most of all spending time with friends. Look up at the brightest star in the sky, Gary is watching over you.  

In lieu of flowers, perform a random act of kindness for a stranger today. Laugh often and love deeply. Memorial Mass Saturday June 3 at 11:00 St. Bernadette’s, Randolph. Interment is private.