Thomas McDonald

Thomas Lea McDonald, age 69, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 22, 2025 with his loving wife at his side in Clarksville, IN. Born June 24, 1955 in Louisville, KY to Ronald Neil and Patricia Mae McDonald. He lived in various places throughout his life. Thomas (Tom) impacted many lives in various ways and he will be greatly missed by his family, friends and church that are near and far.

Tom was retired from his careers in journalism, photography, insurance adjusting, and retail management. He had many gifts and talents, not the least of which was his writing ability expressed professionally in news reporting and journalism, and in his creative writings such as songs, short stories, an unpublished play (Three Days in Eternity) and a published devotional book (God’s Lettuce Patch).

He enjoyed a multiple of intellectual pursuits, including extensive reading in theology and politics. His education included several years at Campbellsville College focusing on religious studies and theater arts, a Bachelor of Science in Communications (Journalism) with Honors from University of Tennessee, Knoxville and a Master of Science, Leadership from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. He most recently completed a few semesters at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

His interests and hobbies were various and many throughout his life. They included a love of music: listening (especially classic rock), singing, playing trumpet in high school, and playing guitar and bass on the worship teams at church. He performed in live theater, participating in the large Easter productions at Southeast Christian Church and performing a one-man recitation of the Book of Galatians, “Coffee with Paul.” He enjoyed various sports and outdoor activities throughout his life: gymnastics, tennis, softball, volleyball, golf, hiking, boating, snow skiing to name just a few. Other hobbies included: riding motorcycles, scenic photography, watching movies and television, and keeping up with current events. He enjoyed dancing, the beach, cruises and other travel with his wife, Jill, as well

as family time with his daughter and grandson. He loved all animals, especially the beloved dogs that he had throughout his life.

Tom was a Christian believer who was involved with and had leadership roles at various churches and organizations. He had a heart to share his faith with others, especially those who would not otherwise go to a church. He was currently active at Vineyard Church Southern Indiana and previously involved in Christian Motorcyclists Association. He even participated in two mission trips to Cuba.

He is survived by his wife Jill Amy (Forman) McDonald, his daughter Andre'a McDonald-Peyton (William (Billy) Peyton), Grandchild Elijah James Peyton, and siblings Danny Neil McDonald and Heidi McDonald Singer.

All are invited to a Celebration of Life service which will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, March 1st, at Vineyard Church Southern Indiana, 727 Rolling Creek Dr., New Albany. Thomas will be laid to rest in a private service at an earlier date.Donations for Thomas can be made too, Vineyard Church Southern Indiana. vcsoin.churchcenter.com