Helen McDonald

Helen McDonald, age 86, devoted wife and loving mom passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2014. She was born in Blackfoot, TX, on January 19, 1928, to the late Mary and James Landon Gatewood. Helen graduated from Palestine High School in 1944. On February 12, 1949, Helen married the late Fred McDonald Jr. who was her rock and foundation for 56 wonderful years.

She was a Life Time member of Weight Watchers and loved to help with the classes for many years. She was also a Life Time member of The Houston Gun Collectors Association. Helen, as most know, loved all animals. Her 2 cats Poncho and Tinkerbell, who meant the world to her, will live the remainder of their lives with family. Helen has finally joined her husband Fred in what we know was a joyous reunion.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Rhonda; son, Ron & his wife Pat; and step granddaughters, Michelle and Rachel; wonderful care giver, confidant and best friend for the last 11 years Patricia Berry as well as her wonderful caregivers Oceana Adams, Urania Walker and Wanda Lovelace. We are forever grateful for their kindness and great care. She will always be the wind beneath our wings although we are left with a void that cannot be filled.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 5, 2014 at Bethany Christian Church 3223 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098. Interment will follow in Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Houston Hospice, American Stroke Foundation or to a local animal charity of your choice.