A Memorial Service was held for Thomas McDonald, age 72, at Calvary Baptist Church in Homer, LA, on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., Rev. Andy Maddox and Rev. Steve Beard, officiated. Visitation was at the church from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Thomas was born December 6, 1950, in El Dorado, AR, to Robert C. and Marguerite N. Davis McDonald. He entered into rest at his home in Haynesville surrounded by family on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Thomas worked hard all his life, even as a young boy alongside his brothers on his family’s dairy farm. He began his career in the auto body industry at Laney Body Shop in El Dorado, AR. Thomas then decided to venture into business for himself with opening Thomas Auto Care in Homer. He then spent the next 30 years expanding his shop along with other business adventurous. Thomas always told his daughters the reason why he would buy land was, “They not making any more dirt.” He loved his community and cherished his family, especially Thursday night family dinners. Thomas served his Lord and Savior with his gifts and talents making a difference in other peoples lives. He was a generous and kind individual who never met a stranger.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ferrell McDonald; step-son, Jeffrey Barton; and son-in-law, Brad Rogers.

He is survived by his loving wife of  43 years, Virginia Gayle Brown McDonald; two daughters, Crista Rogers of Homer, LA, and Dustyn McDonald of Haynesville, LA; two sisters, Gwen Freeman of Rogers, AR and Lena Wood of El Dorado, AR; four brothers, Wayne McDonald of Junction City, AR, Neal McDonald of Little Rock, AR, Richard McDonald of Junction City, AR, and Glenn McDonald of El Dorado, AR; six grandchildren, Tyler Cheney, Casey Cheney, Laney Williams, Ace Williams, Amber Player, and Cord Barton; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Thomas’ family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Claiborne Memorial Medical Center, Ochsner LSU, Pafford EMS and Bristol Hospice for the care and compassion given him.

Honorary pallbearers were Gordon Simmons, Donald Willis, Keith Hollenshead, Robert Bradshaw, Butch Kendrick, Randy Johnson, Tommy Ellis, Travis Ellis, and Adam Farris.

In lieu of flowers honoring Thomas, his family suggests memorials be made to Calvary Baptist Church of Homer, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or donor’s choice.

Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Homer Chapel  (318) 927-6110