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In Memory

Laura Perry (McLean)

Laura Perry (McLean)

Laura Perry McLean died peacefully at home on May 2, 2012.  Laura was a dear and special friend to many.  Relationships with colleagues, neighbors, and even family were first rooted in friendship.

She was deeply connected to the Raleigh community her entire life, keeping close ties to those she had known from her childhood days at Hugh Morson Junior High, to her high school classmates from Enloe High, to her college days at NC State.

She enjoyed a long and successful career in the Undergraduate Admissions Office at NC State, beginning as a work study student in 1966 advancing to her role as Senior Associate Director of Admissions.  She had a special ability to see potential in students and help to transform their lives through a college education.  She particularly enjoyed advising students and helping them identify the pathway toward meeting their goals.  Her Admissions Office friends recently recognized her service to the University by dedicating a bench beside the Bell Tower in Laura's honor.

A gentle and nurturing woman, Laura was known as "LaLa" to her two grandsons.  She enjoyed special relationships with her grandchildren, siblings, and nieces and nephews who all considered her a touchstone for the family.  Jen and Matt, her beloved children were central to her life; Mike, her husband of 35 years, was her best friend and companion.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents, Phil and Margaret Perry.  She is survived by her husband, Mike McLean; daughter Jen McLean Foster (Derek); son Matt McLean; grandsons Jay and Luke Foster; sister Beth Perry Black (Tal); and three brothers:  Mike Perry (Betty), Dennis Perry (Ali), and David Perry (Robin); and nine nieces and nephews.  Also surviving her are her closest friends, sister-in-law Jeannette Johnson (Jim), and Annie Lawrance (John).

Contributions may be made in Laura's name to Hospice of Wake County, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC  27607.