William Earl McDonald

McDonald – William “Earl” McDonald, age 92, of Tallahassee, Florida passed away on February 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born to the late Owen and Ruth McDonald.  Born in Montgomery County, Georgia Earl graduated high school in 1951 and soon after married the love of his life, Theda, on July 4, 1954. They celebrated 71 amazing years together.  After years of devoted service to the State of Florida, Earl worked faithfully until his retirement. He was a true Southern gentleman who loved the simple things in life such as casting a fishing line and reading his Bible every day. Though Earl loved his country deeply, he was a Christian first and lived his life guided by God’s word. Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Ruth McDonald; and son, Greg McDonald.

Earl is survived by his loving wife, Theda McDonald; children, Karon (Jimmy) Phillips, Lee (Barry) Samples, and Ken (Karen) McDonald; sister, Sara Ruth Mahaney; 6 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Earl’s Life will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Cedar Bay Funeral Home with Kevin McDonald officiating. Interment will follow at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, where military honors will be rendered. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of CEDAR BAY FUNERAL HOME, 405 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville, Florida, 32218.

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