Raymond Walter McDonald (Ray), son of the late Raymond L. and Joy E. McDonald, was born on June 5, 1941, in Perrinton, Michigan.
Ray graduated from Troy High School in Troy, Michigan. Soon after, he answered the call to ministry and began preparing for a life devoted to faith, family, and service to others.
He married the love of his life, Marilyn, and together they built a beautiful life centered on love, laughter, faith, and family. Their marriage was marked by devotion, partnership, and unwavering commitment through every season of life.
In 1971, the family moved to Minot, North Dakota, where Ray continued his ministry training. He became active in children’s evangelism, pulpit ministry, and puppet ministry. In 1973, he was licensed as a minister in the Church of God and was called to serve a congregation in Velva, North Dakota.
Throughout his life, Ray pastored churches, shared the Gospel, counseled families, visited those in need, and became known for his kindness, wisdom, humor, and deep compassion. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, heard, and loved.
Ray was also known as a storyteller, a man who could light up a room with laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable memories. Whether around a dinner table, in a church pew, on a porch swing, or gathered with family, Ray brought warmth and joy to those around him.
He treasured time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, taking pride in each of them and celebrating their lives and accomplishments. To his family, he was a protector, encourager, teacher, and steady source of love.
Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn McDonald; his children, Lorie Ann McDonald Tuma of Venice, Florida; Tamie McDonald Wilson (Dean) of Hudson, Florida; and Raymond Lewis McDonald (Joy) of Shepherd, Michigan; his grandchildren, Holly McDonald Haslam (Matt), Anna Travis Reihl (Cory), Heidie Travis Lehmkuhle (Corey), John McDonald, and Ryan Travis; his great-grandchildren, Bryson and Avarie Lehmkuhle; and his sisters, Patricia McDonald Capling (Gordon), Diane McDonald Malseed (Jerry, deceased), and Deborah McDonald Fancher (Mark). He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were blessed by knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond L. and Joy E. McDonald, and his granddaughter, Tiffany Joy McDonald.
Ray’s legacy lives on through the faith he shared, the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the example he set.
Cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service Saturday, May 16 at 3 P.M. at the Shepherd United Methodist Church with a meal to follow. There will be visitation from 2 P.M. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to the R.E.A.P. Food Pantry (Rosebush Emergency Assistance Program).
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Matthew 25:23
