Michael McDonald

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Michael McDonald
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    It is heartening to see a young man shoulder the responsibilities of hard work, such as a welder, whose welding work borders on steel artistry, and be a devoted husband, attentive father, and good son. As we grow older, we are reassured that those younger than us with such attributes will ably manage the future of our next generations, and that our values and ethics will be continued. Such young men are the hope of America.
    Michael Ray McDonald, 28, of Murphy, was called home by his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020.
    Michael was a 2010 graduate of Murphy High School, where he played football. His favorite pastime was hunting and fishing.
    Michael began welding at the age of 18, and had traveled the country alongside his wife, Amber, and young son, Deacon. Michael was a member of Pipeliners Local Union No. 798.
    Michael attended Mount Carmel Baptist Church, but was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church.
    Surviving are his loving wife, Amber McDonald, who was his world, and a son, Deacon Ray McDonald, of the home; his parents, Ben and Rebecca McDonald; a brother, Jonathan McDonald and wife Beth; maternal grandparents, Sheridan and Patsy Dockery; paternal grandparent, Alice McDonald; father and mother-in-law, Tim and Julie Boring; sister and brother-in-law, Chelsea and Brian Foster, all of Murphy; and several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
    He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Floyd McDonald.
    Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, Murphy, with the Rev. Josh Ledford officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jonathan McDonald, Brandon Stiles, Ryan Stiles, Logan Exum, Lucas Kilpatrick and Loren Jones. Honorary pallbearers will be Brian Foster, Michael Martini, Jacob Hamby, Bryson Hamby, Jamie Oliver and Clinton Raper.
    The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.
    There is an old Indian saying that the Great Spirit sometimes gifts individuals with more talents and abilities than the rest of us, but then the Great Spirit often takes them home sooner. We cannot help but be reminded of this with the death of Michael.
    A Go Fund Me account has been set up for Amber and Deacon to offset expenses. You may make a donation at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-for-michael-mcdonald.
    Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.
    An online guest register is available at iviefuneralhome.com.