Gerald Wayne McDonald

Cmdr. Gerald W. McDonald, PhD., retired, 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, 2009. Gerry fought a brave, hard battle against Alzheimer's dementia, which was especially frustrating for him as he was an exceptionally brilliant man.

Born in Rifle, Colorado, he left home to join the United States Navy. His performance on the job quickly earned him acceptance to Officer Candidate School, and he became a commissioned Naval Officer within seven years of service.

Gerry was a naval aviator, serving his country with honor and pride for twenty-five years. Following retirement, Gerry returned to college, earning a PhD. For nearly twenty more years Gerry worked as a Department of Defense consultant in Albuquerque, N.M.

Gerry retired again to North Carolina, where he was involved with several volunteer organizations and served as president of the Sons of the American Revolution, participating in reenactment events every 4th of July. Gerry was proud of his American heritage and was an avid genealogist, tracing his family history back to the 1600's. Gerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and patriot.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Lucille McDonald, who now resides in Jacksonville, Fla. Lucille is the daughter of Alfred ("Shorty") and Goldie Clemons of Piggott. He also leaves behind his three children, Vickie Boesdorfer (Craig), Wayne McDonald (Kathy) and Myra Wilson, as well as four beautiful and blessed grandchildren, Elizabeth McDonald, Dallas Boesdorfer, Curtis Boesdorfer and Wyatt Wilson. Gerry was predeceased by his grandson, Gerald Wayne McDonald II.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Bugles Across America, founded by Tom Day to provide live buglers at funerals of veterans across the country. To learn about Bugles Across America and/or make a donation, please visit their website at: www.buglesacrossamerica.org.

Funeral services will be at the National Cemetery in Jacksonville, Fla., with full military honors at 10 a.m. on July 10, 2009. Arrangements are under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, Fla., 32250.