John "JW" McDanal Sr.

John Wesley ‘JW’ McDanal Sr., 75, passed away peacefully the morning of October 23rd at his home in Irondale, Alabama. Born on July 18th, 1949, to Thomas ‘Click’ McDanal and Evelyn McDanal, he was a lifelong resident of Irondale. He served in the Air Force from 1968 to 1972 during the Vietnam War and was a proud Veteran for his entire life. After leaving the service, he worked for Brasfield and Gorrie until he started with the Irondale Fire Department where he proudly served as a Lieutenant until his retirement in 2007. JW married the love of his life, Kim, on April 30th, 1987, and they spent 37 wonderful years together. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family and friends. He also loved being outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and playing softball.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas ‘Click’ McDanal and Evelyn McDanal; and his brother, Thomas Henry McDanal. He is survived by his wife, Kim McDanal; his three children, Chris McDanal (Ceil), Katie Bell (Billy), and Wes McDanal (Laura); his siblings, Billie Jean McDanal and Joe McDanal (Jackie); and his ten grandchildren, Maegen McClain (Jordan), Peyton McDanal, Talon McDanal, Joe Harper, Lanei McDanal, Brayden Cox, Will Harper, Hunter Cox, Amylia McDanal, and Nataleigh McDanal.

JW’s wife, Kim, wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has offered love and support during this time. A very special thank you to Barry Ellard, Jr., Earl Sloan, and Ken Edwards, who have provided continual support to Kim throughout JW’s illness.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 26th. They will receive family and friends beginning at 11:30am with the service beginning at 1pm at The Church at Liberty Park. Following the service, there will be a procession to Mount Hebron Cemetery in Leeds for the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the non-profit organization, Heidi’s Kids. Donations can be made via their website www.heidiskids.com, through Venmo @heidiskids_7, or checks made payable to Heidi’s Kids mailed to P.O. Box 100052 Irondale, Al 35210.