Dr. Pedro Laureano Jr., MA, PhD was born in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico on September 21, 1964. He left this world on March 24, 2022 at age 57.
Pedro came to New York (NY) with his family at the age of five and grew up in the Bronx, his favorite borough in New York City. He later attended the State University of NY, College at New Paltz, where he received his BA in Sociology. His passion for improving others' lives and well-being, with a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty prompted him to further his post-graduate education. He later received his Master's in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University and a PhD in Social Work from Fordham University.
Professionally, over a 35+-year career, his knowledge in social work, mental health research and evaluation, and public health had infused in him a strong appreciation for the importance of viewing individuals in the context of their social environment, and the biopsychosocial forces that shape their lives. Pedro was an Assistant Professor at New York Medical College (NYMC), and served on many committees, including being a Senator in the Faculty Senate for the Diversity and Inclusiveness Committee at NYMC, and Public Health Preceptor for Phelps Hospital Residency Program. He was also the Director/Administrator at the NY Psychotherapy and Counseling Center in Brooklyn, tirelessly serving the poor and marginalized.
Pedro's greatest and proudest achievement, however, was being a loving and devoted father to his two children. He dedicated his life to ensure that they could have the best life possible. They were the center, the "true north" of his world. To family, friends, and anyone who crossed his path, he was an incredible and kind human being. A humble, unassuming "gentle giant," he made sure everyone felt welcomed and heard. After a few minutes of speaking to him, one would inadvertently share their life story, his gift of storytelling and counseling would naturally appear, and his encouragement would inspire one to set and achieve higher goals. His positivity was contagious, his thoughtfulness touched and brought happiness to countless hearts, and his sense of humor was impeccable. An easygoing man, the simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Pedro. He loved connecting with people, going to the movies, listening, singing, dancing to music, spending quiet nights with loved ones, exploring hiking trails and finding beauty in nature.
Pedro is survived by his two children, Gabriel and Isabella, his mother Milagros, his sisters, Ana, Ivonne and Martha and his brother Jose Ramon. He is also survived by nephews and nieces: Carlos, Ciara, Ismael, Heather, and Jennifer, along with his uncles, cousins, grandnieces and nephews.
Pedro will be honored in a full service funeral on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at the Ralph Giordano Funeral Home at 1727 Crosby Avenue, Bronx NY 10461 from 8 AM-11 AM, followed by a burial at Oakwood Cemetery at 304 Lexington Ave, Mount Kisco, NY 10549 at 1pm.
His care and arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph Giordano Funeral Home..
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