Brother Terence McLaughlin Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy

News Summary

Brother Terence McLaughlin, a key figure in the integration of schools in Memphis, has passed away at the age of 102. As the oldest Lasallian Brother in the U.S., his efforts in integrating Christian Brothers High School in 1963 marked a significant moment in the fight against segregation in education. His legacy of courage, dedication to social justice, and commitment to education will be remembered through various honors, including the establishment of The McLaughlin Social Justice Institute at Christian Brothers University.

Memphis, Tennessee – Brother Terence McLaughlin, a pivotal figure in the integration of schools in Memphis, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the remarkable age of 102. He was recognized as the oldest Lasallian Brother in the United States and leaves behind a legacy of courage and dedication to education and social justice.

In 1963, McLaughlin made history by integrating Christian Brothers High School (CBHS) in Memphis, admitting 13-year-old Jesse Turner Jr. This bold decision marked CBHS as the first integrated high school in the city. McLaughlin’s leadership was instrumental during this time, as he oversaw what was then known as “CBC,” the combined campus of Christian Brothers College and High School. His actions were significant in challenging the prevailing segregationist policies of the era and paved the way for further integration across Memphis schools.

Jesse Turner Jr. graduated from CBHS in 1967 as the co-salutatorian of his class and went on to have a successful career as a businessman in the Memphis area. Recently, on May 12, 2025, Turner participated in the Baccalaureate Mass at CBHS, where the “Jesse Turner Award” was established to honor students who demonstrate exceptional achievement and moral courage, further immortalizing McLaughlin’s legacy.

Following McLaughlin’s passing, many took to social media to share tributes, highlighting his impact on education and social justice. Prominent figures in the community, such as Brother Chris Englert, the current president of Christian Brothers University (CBU), remembered him fondly. Brother Alan Parham, who visited McLaughlin hours before his death, described him as a “giant among the Brothers.” His commitment to the Lasallian mission was synonymous with his life of service, which centered around the principles of kindness and humility.

In his honor, CBU has established The McLaughlin Social Justice Institute, which focuses on Catholic Social Teaching and aims to continue McLaughlin’s work in empowering youth and promoting social justice. Nick Scully, a prominent figure in Memphis education, praised McLaughlin not only as a role model but also as a dedicated religious leader whose influence extended far beyond the classroom.

McLaughlin’s character was reflected in his ability to inspire others, as many shared personal anecdotes about his supportive nature. On his milestone 100th birthday in December 2022, he stressed the importance of taking “the high road” during conflicts, advising others with wisdom he had gathered over the years, including lessons from prominent figures such as former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Born in Duluth, Minnesota, McLaughlin joined the Christian Brothers community after being inspired by their work during his high school years. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to the educational and religious sectors in Memphis, where he became a respected voice for addressing moral issues and advocating for equal educational opportunities for all students.

McLaughlin passed away at Ave Maria Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Bartlett, Tennessee, and is scheduled to be buried at Calvary Cemetery, surrounded by fellow Brothers. His tireless commitment to equity in education and his contributions toward a more just society will be remembered by many, as he significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals and set a precedent for future generations in Memphis.

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• Action News 5: Brother Terence McLaughlin Dies at 102
• Daily Memphian: Brother Terence McLaughlin Obituary
• Action News 5: Video Tribute to Brother McLaughlin
• Action News 5: Shooting Investigation in Memphis
• Memphis Magazine: McLaughlin’s Impact on Memphis
• Wikipedia: Christian Brothers High School
• Google Search: Brother Terence McLaughlin
• Google Scholar: Terence McLaughlin
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Brother Terence McLaughlin
• Google News: Brother Terence McLaughlin