John McLafferty

April 14, 1939 – August 2, 2025 

John McLafferty passed away peacefully on the evening of August 2, 2025, at the age of 86.

He was the devoted husband of Mieko McLafferty (née Suzuki), a beloved father of Steve McLafferty (Christy), and a cherished grandfather of Kaley and Teagan McLafferty—all of whom will deeply miss him.

John was the youngest son and last surviving child of Charles McLafferty of Donegal, Ireland, and Bridget McLafferty (née Monaghan) of Dunnamore, Ireland. He was predeceased by his siblings Charles (Pat), Mary Lynch (Tom), and Bernie (Florence). He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, several of whom affectionately knew him as “Gruncle John.”

Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, John graduated from Roman Catholic High School, where he excelled both academically and as a runner on the track team. His athletic talent earned him a scholarship to Temple University, where he continued to compete and proudly ran in the prestigious Penn Relays.

Following college, John served six years in the United States Air Force, including a tour in Okinawa during the Vietnam War. He later began a long career in the insurance industry, first as an adjuster in Los Angeles, CA, where he also raised his son, Steve. He and Mieko eventually settled in Las Vegas, NV, where he continued his work in insurance and built a life filled with family, adventure, and service.

Service to others was a guiding principle of John’s life. He volunteered with Medical Ministry International, joining humanitarian missions across China, Vietnam, Thailand, and Azerbaijan to bring care and compassion to underserved communities. In 2005, he also served with FEMA in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, helping in the city’s relief and recovery efforts.

A lifelong lover of the outdoors, John especially enjoyed hiking and camping in the national parks near his home. He also loved playing golf and was a passionate reader, rarely able to pass a bookstore without stepping inside. Over the years, he built a vast home library covering nearly every subject imaginable—always eager to share his books and knowledge with others.

John will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, generous heart, deep curiosity, and unwavering dedication to helping others.

Memorial service at graveside will be held October 11, 2025, at 11:00 am at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 3301 W. Cheltenham Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19150.  Please meet inside main entrance on Cheltenham Ave at 10:45 am.