of Alexander, AR
April 15, 1941 - March 19, 2020
Willie Don McDonald, 78 of Alexander, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2020 surrounded by his family. He was born April 15, 1941 in Dumas, AR to Claborn and Jemima McDonald, preceded him in death as well as his brother Bobby.
Willie had a love of outdoor sports that included playing Senior Softball until he was 75, hunting with his son-in-law and grandson and fishing on Lake Nimrod with the whole family, but would rather bait the hook for his granddaughter and take her fish off. Willie loved to cook on the smoker he designed with the help of family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years Ruth Ann McDonald; daughter Donna (Bud) Hamilton; grandson Kyle (Haley) Hamilton; granddaughter Jade Hamilton; brother Danny McDonald; sister in law Gladys (David) Olinger: nephews Mervin and Allen Fitzwater; a host of great nieces, nephews and a host of friends who are more like family than they will ever know.
An outdoor service is planned for Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at 10:00 am. Service will be held at the Gazebo at Pinecrest Cemetery. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name may be made to Avilla LWML Quilting Group or The Meals Shut in Ministry at Avilla Zion Lutheran Church, 300 Avilla E, Alexander, AR 72002
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14 Condolence(s)
Margaret Leggett
Monday, March 30, 2020
Hi Ruth Ann, it's been a while, but fondly recall you and Willie Don "hanging around" Mom and Dad's, bar-b-cuing or playing that game of "washers". Can't imagine how you will miss him after 56 years....just 2 years longer than Bill and I have been married. May your wonderful memories and the peace of God fill your heart and soul in the coming days. Love, Margaret Ann and Bill.
Mark A De Jesus Sr
Friday, March 27, 2020
Dearest Ruth Ann, I know that DD and I have seen you for all the years that our league started back in 1992, and I can tell you that the times that Willie came into my softball realm, I had met him many times at other softball tournaments and I was always impressed by his play and thru the years, but above all was his character, as he carried himself with grace and dignity. On the field and off. He will be missed by all that knew him. DD and I wish you and your family, at this sad time, our deepest condolences for your loss and as one of those that played with and against Willie, we know that he will always have that smile that will light up every one around him.
Gayle Nelson
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Dear Ruth and family,
I am so saddened to read of the loss of Willie for you, his children, extended and church family. I’ll miss his smiling face after church when Ruth and he joked with fellow church goers about where the other one was. There was a lotta love there.
Punkin
Monday, March 23, 2020
Daddy, my life will never be the same without you here on earth with me. I'm so blessed to have been able to make 52 years of memories with you as there are so many from each stage of my life. As a child we would spend our weekends at the ball field, each weekend would bring a new place to see and you always made sure I was in that dugout and being taken care of. As a teenager, you still played softball but that's when you started taking me to the Razorback football games and my love for the HOGS happened. As I got older and got married, you and I still had out daddy daughter time together. I so loved you being my concert date even if at times the music got a little to loud for you, driving to Fayetteville to watch basketball games, being there for the birth of my 2 babies, and list could go for every. Your grandbabies where the cherry on top of your ice cream sundae. You loved us all without every having to say a word. Mom and I will get through this one day at a time as long as we hold you close to our heart. Until I see you again Daddy, I love you!
Larry Szurgot
Monday, March 23, 2020
Hey Ruth, man was I surprised to read Willie’s passing, it is still hard for me to comprehend. Seems like just yesterday he stopped by my house to chat for a while. We had some good times on the softball field.
Eddie Glover
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Ruth Ann - so sorry to hear about Willie's passing. He was a very good friend, especially in the last few years. Of course, he was a very good softball player. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Eddie
Narcie Holley
Sunday, March 22, 2020
My deepest sympathy goes to Ruth, Donna and grandchildren. So very sorry for your loss prayers for family
Jed Johnson
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Bobby Tiner
Sunday, March 22, 2020
Willie was fun to be around and more fun to play softball with. He and Goob made quite a pair. God be with the McDonald family!
Leland and Sue Smith
Sunday, March 22, 2020
We were very saddened to hear about Willie’s passing, he was such a fine gentleman. We know it will be hard on the family to deal with his loss but we pray and know that Jesus our Lord and Savior will give his loving comfort to you. Our love to all. Leland and Sue Smith. 💜
Donna Cooper
Saturday, March 21, 2020
So sorry for your loss.
Pam and Brittney Waddle
Saturday, March 21, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family through this time. Willie was like family to us and he will be missed.
Wayne and Joyce Hamilton
Saturday, March 21, 2020
We lost a great friend and a wonderful man. May he find peace in heaven.
David and Gladys Olinger
Saturday, March 21, 2020
We will always remember all the special good times that we have had together. As a special brother-in-law, he will always be in our hearts.