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Rodney E. McLaughlin

Dr. Rodney E. McLaughlin, 87, of Palmyra and formerly of Hershey and Hummelstown, passed away on November 7th at his home in Londonderry Village surrounded by his family. Rod was born on April 4, 1933 in Chambersburg PA,  the son of the late Leonard and Helen McLaughlin. He was a loving and devoted husband and is survived by his wife of 64 years, Maria Teresa “Tere” and his sister, Betty Newman. He was the loving father of two sons: Michael and Steve (wife Donna).

After growing up in Fort Loudon PA, Rod attended the Pennsylvania State University earning a B.S., and in 1959 earned his M.S.  in Psychology. After further graduate studies at PSU he started his professional career returning to Penn State to complete a Ed.D in School Psychology in 1976. Rod was a true Penn State fan!

In 1961, Rod began a long and rewarding career at the Milton Hershey School for 31 years. He began as Director of Student Personnel Services, and retired with the title of Medical Director. Rod was grateful for the opportunity to work with the entire MHS family in a cooperative effort to fulfill Mr. and Mrs. Hershey’s dream, and especially to form friendships with and play a role in the growth and development of the MHS students with whom he interacted.

Rod was an active supporter of the Pennsylvania Psychological Association where he chaired numerous committees, served a term as President and received the Distinguished Service Award. The PA School Counselors’ Association recognized him for outstanding service, and the Pennsylvania Dental  Association  for Outstanding Service to Children. As a Fellow in the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards he received an award for Distinguished Service. He was also appointed by three Pennsylvania Governors to serve on the Pennsylvania Board of Psychology where he was a Vice-Chair. The most meaningful recognition Rod ever received was being elected an Honorary Alumnus of the Milton Hershey School.

After retiring in 1992, Rod and Tere lived in Hummelstown before moving to Palmyra in 2016. He thoroughly enjoyed everything tennis, and traveling with his family.

Rod will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who he positively influenced throughout his life. He will forever be remembered for being willing to help anyone in need, and for showing the love that he had for everyone.

The family requests  that in lieu of flowers, friends consider making a donation to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital,501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105-1942.

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