It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dorothy “Dot” Viator McDonald, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who entered eternal rest on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the age of 91. Her life was a beautiful testament to selflessness, love, and service to others.
For many years, Dot generously volunteered her time at Iberia Manor North, where she lovingly fixed residents’ hair—offering not just her skilled hands, but also her listening ear and kind heart. Her quiet acts of care brought comfort and dignity to many, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A longtime member of Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church and the Ladies Altar Society, Dot lived her faith through action, never seeking recognition, but always ready to lend a hand or a warm smile.
At home, her kitchen was the heart of the family—where memories were made over meals crafted with love. Her family will forever cherish the tradition of choosing their own birthday cakes, the soothing bowls of homemade chicken noodle soup when they were ill, and the countless meals shared with not only family but also the neighborhood children who were always welcomed at her table. She made everyone feel like family.
Dot was unmatched in her talent for ironing—always taking pride in the little details—and had a green thumb that could make anything grow. Whether it was vibrant flowers or rows of vegetables, her garden flourished under her care. She found peace and joy in the outdoors, often spending evenings alongside her beloved "Paw," helping tend the sheep and soaking in the beauty of nature.
Her love for animals was evident in the way she cared for them and shared that passion with others. Her hands were rarely idle—always crocheting thoughtful gifts that now live on in the homes and hearts of those she loved.
Above all, she will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering generosity, and the warmth she gave so freely to everyone around her. She truly was the heart of her family, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue to guide them.
Those left behind are her two sons, Neal Henry McDonald and wife Valeria Guillotte McDonald and Brent J. McDonald and wife Ellen Viator McDonald; son-in-law, Robert Snoddy; five grandchildren, Colby C. McDonald and fiancé Crystal Porter; Chase M. McDonald; Matthew McDonald; Hannah McDonald and Blake Snoddy and wife Jennifer Snoddy; and two great grandchildren, Avery Snoddy and Reese Snoddy.
Dot is preceded in death by her husband, Henry Harding McDonald; one daughter, Donna Maria McDonald Snoddy; her parents, Clovis and Corrine Romero Viator; two sisters, Cora Mae David and Laura Mae Broussard and her godchild, Bobby Broussard.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 9:30 am at Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church with Fr. Ed Degeyter officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Evangeline Funeral Home on Friday, June 20, 2025, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, with a Rosary being prayed at 6:00 pm. Visitation will resume on Saturday at Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church beginning at 8:00 am until time of service.
Serving as pallbearers are her son, Neal Henry McDonald; grandchildren, Colby C. McDonald, Chase M. McDonald, Matthew McDonald, Blake Snoddy, Hannah McDonald, and her godchild, Richard David.
Memorial donations may be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905 and/or Audubon Hospice, 221 Rue DeJean, Suite 201, Lafayette, LA 70508.
Relatives and friends are invited to share their condolences and memories at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
