David Lee McDonald

David Lee McDonald, 84, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at home with his family in Booneville where he was receiving hospice care after a 3-year hard-fought battle with cancer. Born March 4, 1941, in Topeka, Kansas, David - known to many as Dave or Mac - lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a deep love for his family and community.

Dave was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hazel Elizabeth McDonald; his parents, John and Ethel McDonald; his brothers, James McDonald and John McDonald; his grandson, Christopher McDonald; and stepson, John Keck.

He is survived by his son, Steve McDonald and wife Laura of Booneville; granddaughters Charlotte and Grace McDonald of Booneville; granddaughter Julia Moon; great-granddaughter, Annabelle Moon; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dogs, Ralph and George. His 4-year-old twin granddaughters, Charlie and Gracie, were especially dear to him - his pride and joy - and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Dave proudly served in the United States Army in the Signal Corps for 20 years retiring with the rank of First Sergeant. His military career took him across Europe, the United States, and included two tours of duty in Vietnam. He earned numerous medals and awards, including the Bronze Star. Specializing in radio communications, Dave developed a passion that would remain with him throughout his life. His expertise in this field not only defined his military service but also inspired his lifelong interest as an amateur radio operator.

At the conclusion of his military career, Dave moved to Arkansas with Betty and Steve to be close to family. He worked at Carco Fort Smith for a short time, taught JROTC at Van Buren High School for five years and started a Farmers Insurance Agency in Van Buren where he served as an agent and Betty was his secretary.

Following his retirement from the insurance industry, Dave continued to serve others through volunteer work. He gave generously of his time to the Salvation Army in Fort Smith and served as the Communications Coordinator for the Sebastian County Department of Emergency Management. Whether responding to emergencies or lending a helping hand to those in need, Dave’s commitment to public service never wavered.

Dave loved being on the radio and developed many friendships with other radio operators over the years. He had a group of local operators he spoke to daily and talked to operators all over the United States and around the world.

Faith played a central role in Dave’s life. He was an active member of Massard Missionary Baptist Church in Fort Smith until illness prevented him from attending. The church community held a special place in his heart; he often spoke fondly of Pastor Pevehouse and the congregation who welcomed him so warmly from the beginning.

A man known for his kindness and generosity, Dave touched many lives through both quiet acts of compassion and steadfast dedication to those around him. His legacy lives through the family he loved deeply and the countless individuals he helped along the way.

Funeral service will be 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 13, 2025, at Massard Missionary Baptist Church at 7901 Massard Road, Fort Smith with burial to follow at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

Pallbearers will be Travis Cooper, Mark Covert, Skot Covert, Dunn Daniel, David McDonald, and Joe Pennington.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dave’s honor to Massard Missionary Baptist Church missions’ program.