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Ray D. McDonald, Jr. passed away on August 27, 2023 at the age of 82 in Tallahassee, Florida where he was a lifelong native. He gained the family nickname “Dusty” the day he was born, on June 24, 1941 to parents Ethel and Ray D. McDonald, Sr. He attended Leon High School prior to joining the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he joined the United States Honor Guard Reserves. He then began his career with the United States Postal Service. With over 30 years of service with USPS, he retired as the manager of the Leon station and was even hired back on as a consultant for another 5 years. Earlier in life, Ray briefly pursued real estate and brokering. However brief, it instilled a lifelong passion for property and real estate researching. From his career at USPS and this interest in property, Ray also loved studying maps or finding the best shortcut or route to any given destination in his native city. He is remembered for his impressive memory of addresses and locations from his tenure at USPS and naturally, Ray was an avid history buff and his favorite past time was writing poems. He also loved leisurely car rides or driving in any capacity. It is no surprise that Ray also loved traveling, especially with the love of his life and companion of over 20 years: Anita Grace McDaniel. Ray and Anita were inseparable partners and she remained by his side as until his last breath. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Paresh Patel for all of his time and expertise treating Ray for many, many years. They became close friends and Dr. Patel went above and beyond to call and check in with Ray and Anita often. Ray leaves behind not only Anita, but his children Michelle McDonald Higdon (Ralph) and Brian Shea McDonald; siblings Patsy Stokes, Joy Brady, Nina Diamond and Thomas R. “Buddy” McDonald (Judy) as well as 8 grandchildren, Dusty McDonald, Sidney McDonald, Matthew McDonald, Briana McDonald, Ramsey Higdon Jones, Andrew Higdon, Justin Higdon and Dillon McDaniel, 3 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in passing by his father Ray D. McDonald, Sr., mother Ethel Newton McAlpin and his step-father, Thomas McAlpin. A graveside service will be held at Tallahassee Memory Gardens on Monday, September 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Childrens' Research Hospital. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Ray D. McDonald, Jr.

June 24, 1941 - August 27, 2023