Donald Ray McDade, 83, passed away June 18, 2021. He was born November 20, 1937 in Cameron, TX to the late Jessie Naomi Davenport and Clarence Henry McDade. Donald served his county in the United States Army for 23 years. Donald toured in Vietnam and was awarded the Silver Star, the third highest military decoration for Valor in Combat; Combat Medical Badge and 2 Bronze Stars, heroic achievement or heroic service in a combat zone. His work as an advocate for Veterans began almost as soon as he became one. Participating as a member of the Victoria Veterans Council and serving as the Administrator of the first Veterans Administration Clinic located in Victoria. He retired from the Audie Murphy Department of Veterans Affairs after 20 years and recently retired from Victoria County Environmental Services.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria Picon-McDade; daughter, Ethel Raye McDade Williams of Dallas; sons, Steven E. McDade (Patricia) of San Antonio; step-sons, John Paul Pena (Melanie) of Spring, Jacob Pena of Shanghai, China; sisters, Jessie Kay Love of Dallas, Lily McDade of Victoria, Lisa McDade of Chicago; brothers, Billy McDade of Victoria, Ronnie McDade of Denver; grandchildren, Christopher Williams (Shantail), Jennifer McDade, Triniti McDade; step-grandchildren, Carter Pena, Jonas Pena; great-granddaughter, Camaurie Williams; mother of his children, Vera Lott McDade.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Michele Rene McDade; sisters, Marilyn Newson, Gracie Green; brothers, Clarence, Bobby Ed, Linwood and Harvey McDade.
Visitation will be Tuesday, June 29, 2021 from 5-6 PM at Rosewood Funeral Chapel with a Prayer Service at 6, coffee to follow.
Burial with full Military Honors will be held 12 July 2021 1400 (2:00 p.m.) in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with his daughter, Michele.
The family requests In Lieu of flowers please donate to Our Lady of Sorrows Victoria, Texas
Words of comfort may be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
