WHEREAS, Roseann McLaughlin was a registered nurse and a cherished member of the staff of the Overbrook School for the Blind located at 6333 Malvern Avenue in West Philadelphia. She served as the Health Services Coordinator for the school, where she worked with students and their families for 15 years; and
WHEREAS, During her time at the Overbrook School for the Blind, McLaughlin created a farm-to-table program in partnership with the Philadelphia Orchard Initiative. As a part of the program, McLaughlin and her students would plant trees and garden boxes throughout the grounds of the School that produced figs, chestnuts, apples, pears, plums, cherries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries. These fruits were served in the School’s lunchroom, as well as sent home with students; and
WHEREAS, McLaughlin’s skill and judgement as a healthcare professional were only exceeded by her compassion, care, and love for the students, staff and mission of Overbrook School for the Blind; and
WHEREAS, From the moment a student arrived on campus, until the second they returned home to their parents or caregivers, Roseann McLaughlin was an integral force in ensuring their health, welfare, and safety; and
WHEREAS, Roseann McLaughlin passed away unexpectedly on November 2, 2018 in a fire in her home in Havertown. She was 62 years old, and is survived by her daughter, granddaughter, and sister; and
WHEREAS, The loss of Roseann McLaughlin has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, neighbors, and her students. She will forever be missed, but the impact she has made on the lives of many shall be remembered; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors the life and contributions of Roseann McLaughlin to the students at the Overbrook School for the Blind and its community.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Roseann McLaughlin as further evidence of the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body.
End