Ronald Edwin McDonald
Ronald Edwin McDonald, age 83, was born on January 14, 1943, in Bastrop, LA. He passed away on April 3, 2026, at the Jackson Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, TN. Ronald lived a full and dedicated life marked by his commitment to family, country, and community. The family chose cremation and there are no services scheduled at this time but will be announced as they become available by the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.
In his youth, Ronald worked as a DJ while still in high school. This love for the media carried into his professional life, where he spent many years in television production with Louisiana Public Television. Ronald was a patriotic American and a proud veteran, having retired from the Tennessee Army National Guard as a Staff Sergeant. His love for his country shaped much of who he was and how he lived. He also enjoyed simple pleasures like watching LSU football and cheering on the New Orleans Saints, and he found relaxation and joy in watching movies.
Above all, Ronald was a devoted family man. He cared deeply for those around him and held his loved ones close to his heart. He was a faithful member of the South Jackson Church of Christ, where his kindness was well known.
Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Lillie Nadine White McDonald. Together, they shared many years of happiness. He is also survived by his sons: Keith McDonald and his wife Brooke of Napierville, IL; Ron McDonald and his wife LeeAnne of Olive Branch, MS; Darrell Smothers and his wife Shirley of Ripley, TN; and Mike Smothers and his wife Andrea of Brownsville, TN. Ronald was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and treasured great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Evon Franklin McDonald.
Ronald Edwin McDonald will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He will be dearly missed by all that had the honor of knowing him. All arrangements are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home.
