John H. B. McLaren, age 89, of Dagsboro, Delaware, formerly of Budd Lake, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 21, 1936, in Kearny, New Jersey, John was the beloved son of the late Allen McLaren and Margaret (Brodie) McLaren. He graduated from Carney's Point High School and went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1962. In addition to his academic pursuits, John proudly served his country in the National Guard from 1957 to 1963.

John devoted more than three decades of his life to shaping young minds as an educator in the Morris School District. Teaching fourth and sixth grade, he was known for his patience, dedication, and genuine care for his students. He retired in 1996 after 31 years of service, leaving behind a lasting impact on generations of learners. Committed to lifelong learning, John continued his own education while working and raising his family, earning his Master's degree plus additional graduate credits from William Paterson University.

A man of many interests and boundless energy, John had a deep love for sports and the outdoors. He was especially passionate about softball, remaining an active member of the Olde Tymers Softball League well into his 80th year. After relocating to Delaware in 1999, he enjoyed playing tennis and an occasional round of golf. In his later years, he found great joy in his weekly poker games, where laughter and camaraderie were always plentiful. Earlier in life, he enjoyed trout fishing and took pride in maintaining a vegetable garden, generously sharing its harvest with friends and neighbors.

Above all, John's greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was deeply involved in the lives of his children, whether coaching their teams or attending musical recitals and events. He cherished the many memories made during annual summer vacations to Long Beach Island, New Jersey—traditions that became treasured family milestones.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Jane L. (Downs) McLaren; his three children, Lori Marabella and her husband Peter of Princeton Junction, New Jersey, Allen McLaren of Dallas, Texas, and David McLaren of Dagsboro, Delaware; and his three cherished grandchildren, Samuel Marabella, McKenzie McLaren, and Julia Marabella. He is also survived by his dear cousin, William Edgar and his wife Eileen of Point Pleasant, New Jersey; their daughter, Nancy Evans and her husband Bill of Verona, New Jersey; and their children, Meg and Will.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Mariner's Global Methodist Church, 81 Central Avenue, Ocean View, Delaware. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.

John will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet strength, his sense of humor, and the deep love he had for his family, community and his Lord Jesus. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in John's name to Mariner's Bethel Global Methodist Church Hope Center, 81 Central Avenue, Ocean View, DE 19970.