Ruby Carleen McDonald

Ruby Carleen McDonald, lovingly known as Carleen, was born on May 27, 1932, in Frankfort, Kentucky, to John Henry Pardi and Evelyn Reynolds Pulliam. She passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, after suffering a stroke the day after Christmas.

Carleen married the love of her life, Roy Douglas McDonald, on April 18, 1954, in Frankfort, Kentucky. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, lasting 63 wonderful years until Douglas' passing on August 4, 2017. Together, they built a beautiful family, and a life filled with love and joy.

Carleen is survived by her five children: Martina (David) Gilly, Linda (Paul) Lindberg, Marianne McDonald, Michael McDonald, and Stacy (Scott) Soloway. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Zachary and Eric Lindberg, Jennifer and Adam Soloway, Austin Gilly, and Sean McDonald. Carleen was also blessed to share in the life of her first great-grandchild, Reid Lindberg.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Joe Pat Pardi, and Georgia Ann Hudnall Quire, who shared many cherished memories with her throughout their lives.

A dedicated nurse by profession, Carleen graduated from the Nazareth School of Nursing at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. She retired as an Occupational Nurse from federal government service and as the Atlanta Regional Manager in 1986, but her true passions lay in quilting, reading, and collecting Reader's Digest Condensed books. She and Douglas made Marietta, Georgia their home in 1971, where they created countless memories over 54 years. Carleen's quilts, crafted with love and care, are cherished keepsakes that will continue to warm the hearts of her family and friends.

Carleen's legacy is one of love, compassion, and dedication to her family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. As she joins her beloved Douglas, we find comfort in knowing they are together again, watching over us with love.

Rest in peace, Mom. Your memory will forever be a blessing.