Ronnie Eugene McDonald

Published 10:16 am Tuesday, December 17, 2024

July 4, 1946 – Dec. 13, 2024

FERRIDAY – Funeral services for Ronnie Eugene McDonald, 78, of Natchez, were held at Young’s Funeral Home in Ferriday on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, at 2 p.m. with Bro. David Kelley officiating. The family received friends on Monday from noon until service time at 2 p.m.

Ronnie was born on Thursday, July 4, 1946, in El Dorado, AR, and passed away on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones. He passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, passion, and love for his family. A tugboat engineer for an impressive 49 years, Ronnie dedicated 27 years to Canal Barge Company and 22 years to Ingram Barge Company. His career on the water reflected his steadfast commitment and work ethic.

Beyond his professional life, Ronnie had a wide array of hobbies that brought him immense joy. A gifted woodworker and mechanic, he spent countless hours working on hot rods and perfecting his craft. He loved fishing, finding peace and excitement in the outdoors, and was an avid fan of football, wrestling, and racing. Known for his hearty appetite, Ronnie never passed up a meal, always appreciating the simple pleasures in life.

Above all, Ronnie cherished his family. Watching them grow and thrive brought him the greatest pride and happiness. He leaves behind a loving family and countless memories that will be treasured forever. Ronnie’s warmth, humor, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is reunited with his parents, Leonard McDonald and Alma Marie Pratt McDonald; brother, Jerry McDonald; and sister, Betty Marie.

Those left behind to cherish Ronnie’s memories are his wife, Sharon Lois Dedon McDonald of Natchez; daughter, Debbie Marie Mize and her husband, Keith of Epps, LA; sons, Ronnie “Junior” McDonald and his wife, Melanie of Bernice, LA, David McDonald of Rayville, LA, Robbie Hunter and his wife, Shelly of Walker, LA, and Shaun McDonald of Natchez; grandchildren, John Graham, Joseph Graham, Stephanie Horton, Misty McDonald, David E. McDonald, Cole McDonald, Taylor Felder, Jathan Hunter, Keeley McDonald, Rhet McDonald, Campbell McDonald, Brittany Simms, Justin Mize, and Zachery Mize; brothers, Joseph McDonald and Leonard McDonald, Jr.; sisters, Alice McDonald and Jean Whitaker; 16 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Those honoring him as pallbearers will be his grandchildren.

To leave an online condolence for the family please visit www.youngsfh.com.