David MacLaughlin

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, David developed a lifelong passion for radio and sound at an early age. Drawn to the airwaves as a young man, he quickly discovered that audio was not simply an interest, but a calling—one that would shape both his professional life and his identity. It was through his love of broadcasting that David met and married his wife, Mary Jo, beginning a partnership that would remain the center of his life for forty-nine years.

David began his career as a radio disc jockey and later fulfilled his dream of running and owning radio stations. While his work in broadcasting was meaningful and successful, David ultimately found his greatest professional purpose in education. He transitioned into teaching with the same curiosity, discipline, and enthusiasm that defined his broadcasting career, dedicating himself to shaping the next generation of audio professionals.

At the New England School of Communications in Bangor, Maine, David played a pivotal role in the growth and development of the Audio Engineering program. Serving as Executive Director of Audio, he was deeply involved in building curriculum, mentoring students, and ensuring that graduates left with both technical expertise and real-world readiness. David was known for his exhaustive commitment to his students—holding high standards, offering hands-on guidance, and investing personally in their success. He believed deeply in the power of sound, storytelling, and professionalism, and he took great pride in seeing his students thrive in their careers.

Beyond the classroom, David was a mentor, leader, and advocate for NESCom. He supported the program not only through instruction, but also through leadership and fundraising efforts, always focused on strengthening opportunities for students and the institution he cared so deeply about. His influence continues through the many alumni who credit David with shaping their careers, sharpening their skills, and instilling confidence in their abilities.

While David was passionate about his work, family was always his greatest joy. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Mary Jo, immensely proud of his son, Mark, and shared a special bond with his beloved granddaughter, Elsie. Some of his happiest moments were the simple ones—playing with his dogs, Fergie and Seamus; golfing with friends; and spending time exploring coastal settings that reminded him of home.

David spent much of his life in Bangor, Maine, before later relocating to Estero, Florida, to be closer to family. No matter where he lived, he maintained a strong and enduring connection to his Nova Scotian roots, which remained an important part of who he was.

David is survived by his wife, Mary Jo MacLaughlin; his son, Mark MacLaughlin; his daughter-in-law, Tracie MacLaughlin; and his beloved granddaughter, Elsie MacLaughlin. He is also survived by his sister, Carol McLaughlin-Weir, and her children Lauren, Kyle, and Sam; his brother-in-law, William C. Pasha; his sister-in-law, Deborah Pasha; his nephew, Brian Pasha; his sister-in-law, Carol Runnion; his brother-in-law, William Runnion; and his dear friends, Philip and Christine Huckins.

He was predeceased by his mother, Marjorie Mott; his stepfather, George Mott; his father-in-law, William E. Pasha; his mother-in-law, Maxine Pasha; and his brother-in-law, Lowell Weir.

Services will be held on January 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Light Catholic Church in Estero, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

David will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a passionate educator, and a leader whose impact continues through the many students and professionals he inspired.