Yet, she started her life's journey being born in Clearview, Oklahoma on March 18, 1922; being happily and lovingly raised by parents, Jessie and Susie Johnson and by other loving family members after her parent’s premature death, the baby girl of 8 close siblings who loved her dearly. Her desires to become a nurse took her to Kansas City, Missouri. Her nursing program began at General Hospital # 2, where she graduated; earning her degree in the Registered Nursing program (RN). It was also during this time that she met Dr. Bruce Palmer McDonald, who was in Residency there; after finishing his Tour of Duty as a physician, having earned the rank of Major with 3 battle stars, serving in Europe during World War II. After this meeting, the attraction progressed and over time, led them to be joyfully married on December 27, 1950.
Mrs. Octavia McDonald provided an exciting, nurturing and loving home for her family in Kansas City, Missouri; as a loving and proud mother as well as a devoted wife. She guided her family to become members of the Catholic Church. Yet, her strength developed compassionately due to the unexpected and early loss of her husband, April 13, 1966. Her pronounced strength also caused her to lovingly guide and raise her children to become successful in their chosen fields and careers, as she continued to pursue advancements in her profession of Nursing.
Further, Mrs. McDonald's positive outlook caused her to have a strong impact in her community. She and other leading Ladies of the Kansas City community hosted formal social dinner evenings for Duke Ellington and Count Basie and other well known entertainers scheduled to perform in popular Kansas City venues. She was an active member of The Kansas Citians, having been chosen to serve a term as President by the membership. She also served in The Links, as well as in other social organizations, both locally and nationally. As a member of The Brunchers, friends and members came together to celebrate and cherish achievements of those who had caused social and societal influential changes to the betterment of the civic and professional community; and all in the aura of delicious cuisine and the finest of conversations, music, attire and ambiance!
Mrs. McDonald was also recognized by Truman Medical Center in Kansas City for outstanding leadership to promote and strengthen medical care delivery in the historic General Hospital #2. She later became a teacher to many nursing students, encouraging their pursuit of excellence and professionalism while achieving career opportunities in nursing. She was instrumental in acquiring full nursing scholarship for one of her students.
She is survived by her son, Mr. Charles Bush, of Texas; her daughter, Roxane (Gail) McDonald Sculthorpe of Arizona; her son, Bruce Palmer McDonald of Colorado; yet being preceded with the loss of her second daughter, Mrs. Patrice Ann McDonald Pierce; and her son, Mr. David Bruce McDonald. She is known as grandmother and great-grandmother having 7 grandsons, and 4 granddaughters, 6 great-grandsons, and 6 great-granddaughters : Jessica, Devin, Desire, Daniella, Terrance, Brandon, Adrian, Jacques, Bruce-Zaevion, Phillip, Ava, Jayden, Mariah, Brian, John; Charles Andre, Charles Johnathan J.D., Taylor, Ryan, Charles “Chucky”, Vincent, and Charleigh; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She is remembered as a wonderful and loving daughter, sister, wife, and will be cherished as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She will be remembered by her chosen adopted son, Dr. Quentin Shaw, and by her chosen adopted daughter, the late Mrs. Patricia Wyatt. More importantly, she will be remembered as a caring, wonderful, supportive, true friend by all; with her Style, Beauty, and Elegance blended with her Poise and Dignity! It is ALL these traits of her persona which will be remembered by everyone! We will always feel the love and influences of Mrs. Octavia McDonald, our 'Tavia', as she is so affectionately called by her closest 'Girlfriends'. We will Always Love You, and Remember You, Our Guardian Angel!
Memorial Services: Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 3:00pm. Repass immediately following.
Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64131
