Duane Kenneth McLaughlin, 67, passed away on August 20, 2026. He was born on December 26, 1958, in Fostoria, Ohio, to Kenneth and Carole McLaughlin. He later made his home in North Carolina, where he built a life centered around his family, hard work, and the things he loved most.

Duane proudly served his country in the United States Navy from June 14, 1977, to June 30, 1997. During his 20 years of dedicated service, he attained the rank of Machinist's Mate Senior Chief Petty Officer before honorably retiring from the Navy. His commitment to his country and his service were an important part of who he was, and he took great pride in his military career.

Following his military retirement, Duane continued his career at Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant, where he worked as a Control Room Operator for 21 years. His work ethic, dedication, and sense of responsibility were evident throughout his professional life.

Duane was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for and caring for his family. He could be stubborn at times, but that determination was also a reflection of his strong character and unwavering spirit.

He enjoyed many things throughout his life, including cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes, water skiing, and, most of all, spending time with his family. His greatest legacy will be the love he shared with those closest to him and the memories they will carry with them for years to come.

Duane is survived by his loving wife, Debra McLaughlin; his children, Jason McLaughlin and wife Megan, Dennise Pooler and husband Joseph, and Julia Hostetter and husband Andrew; and his grandchildren, Kory, Drake, Matthew, Norah, and Lucy. He is also survived by his siblings, Cheryl Howells-Goodwin, Alan McLaughlin, Debbie Cooke, and Kevin McLaughlin, along with their families; as well as many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss him.

Duane was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his memory will live on through the family he loved so dearly and the many lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 12:00 P.M. at 2081 Harnett Central Road in Angier, NC .

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who knew and loved Duane to remember him by making donations in Duane's memory to American Parkinson's Association or Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.