William Thomas McDonald

There are some people whose legacy is not built through loud words, but through consistency, sacrifice, and the way they quietly show up for the people they love.

William Thomas McDonald was one of those people. Born to Cleo McDonald, on November 12, 1942, in Tupelo, Mississippi, he journeyed life without the guidance of a father, yet still became a man who built his own path with resilience, strength, and unwavering dedication to family. At just 18 years old, he answered the call to serve his country, spending four years in the United States Army which was an experience that helped shape the hardworking and disciplined man so many came to know and love.

In 1964, he met the love of his life, beginning a passionate and enduring relationship built on deep love, fierce loyalty, and a bond that stood the test of time. Their love story was real and beautifully human. filled with spirited banter, strong opinions, laughter, and a devotion to one another that never wavered. They spent their lives side by side, caring for each other deeply until the very end. He dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to Rowe International, where his strong work ethic and reliability reflected the kind of man he was. Even after retirement, he continued finding purpose and connection through his work with John Ball Zoo, never fully slowing down.

William was a man who enjoyed life in simple but meaningful ways. Whether tending to his garden, spending time on the golf course, fixing things with his hands, or pouring his energy into creating special moments with his grandchildren he found joy in creating, building, and caring for what mattered most... FAMILY! He believed in family first and carried a special love for his grandchildren, taking pride in the legacy of closeness, strength, and love he helped build!

William is preceded in death by his Mama Cleo, daughter Harriet, and sisters Mazola and Katie. He is survived in love by his wife, Ouida and his children Tracey (Dimetrus) and Rodney(Darlene). His brother Raymond(Linda) and grandchildren Melissa(Mark), Michelle, Brandi(Steve), Najee, Noah, McKala, Mckenzie, Rondell(Zejna), Ashley, and a special cousin, Willie George Shumpert, along with host of great grandchildren, extended family, and friends!