Paul Dean McDonald

Paul Dean McDonald, 89, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at Wellmore of Tega Cay, SC. Born on February 4, 1937, in Charlotte, NC, he was the son of the late Garfield and Janie McDonald. He attended East Mecklenburg High School and went on to build a long and dedicated career at Pelton and Crane, where he served as a customer service representative and technical manager for 40 years before retiring in 1996.

Paul was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Nelda, for 64 years until her passing. He was a man of deep loyalty, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family. He is survived by his daughter, Debra McDonald-Flynt; his son, Keith McDonald, and wife Denise; his grandchildren, Kathleen Atwell (Ben), Ryan McDonald (Lauren), and Conner McDonald (fiancée Rachel); his sister, Betty Stanley (Harold); his brother, Jim Coleman; and his great‑grandchildren, Kate and Hudson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nelda; his brother, Bobby McDonald; and his cherished grandson, Corey Flynt.

Paul was a member of Good Shepherd Church in Charlotte, whose members continued to visit and support him even after he moved into assisted living. He had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life: collecting NASCAR model cars and Jeff Gordon memorabilia, tending to his garden, reading cowboy novels, and riding his John Deere tractor. He loved spending time outdoors chatting with neighbors, tinkering in the yard, and giving his grandchildren lawn mower rides.

He enjoyed watching his soap operas and true‑crime shows, and he treasured the years he spent coaching Keith in baseball for Steele Creek Little League. A proud fan of UNC sports and NASCAR, Paul wore his team colors with enthusiasm. He and Nelda created countless memories at their mountain cabin in Virginia, where they hosted family for many years. Paul especially loved holidays, family gatherings, McDonald reunions in Lenoir, and cookouts often accompanied by spirited games of horseshoes.

A service to honor Paul’s life will be held at McEwen Funeral Home at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC, on Monday, March 16, 2026. Visitation will take place from 12:00-1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service from 1:00-2:00 p.m. led by Reverend Betsy Williamson, with a graveside service immediately following at Sharon Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Shepherd Church,13110 Moss Road, Charlotte, NC 28273, US, or online at https://www.gscharlotte.org/giving, or to the UNCC scholarship fund established in memory of his grandson, Corey Flynt.