COLUMBUS
Jerome L. McDonald, also known by friends and family as Jerry or Mac, of Columbus, passed away surrounded by his family at 5:15 p.m., Thursday, October 27, 2022 at Silver Oaks Health Campus. He was 91 years old. Jerry was born May 24, 1931, in Corning, Indiana, the son of James Leo and Odetta Beatrice (Brown) McDonald. On October 3, 1964, he married the love of his life, Betty L. Burris, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Whitfield, Indiana.
Jerry worked hard to ensure his family was well provided for, and never complained, even in the most difficult of times. From setting aside his own interests after losing his father at a young age, to providing for his wife and four children, Jerry worked selflessly for the ones he loved. He was employed at McCord’s in Washington, Indiana for over 20 years and retired from Cummins, Inc. after more than a decade. He continued working into his mid-80s, doing some light construction and yard work. Jerry took great pride in hard work and a job well done.
Often, he could be found outdoors, grilling, gardening, and tending to his landscaping. He had a green thumb, as did his dear wife Betty; their yard on Irwin Drive was always full of beautiful flowers and a well-tended garden. Jerry’s home grown tomatoes could simply not be beat. He continued to tend the flowers and the garden, even after his beloved Betty passed away.
Jerry was kind, patient and a calming influence on those around him, rarely ever raising his voice. Those lucky enough to know him, enjoyed his hearty laugh and warm personality. Sunday was especially important, as the family would go to mass at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, followed by a large family meal. Jerry was a devout Catholic and a true family man.
To his children, grandchildren, and beyond, he will be remembered as the steady patriarch, an example for them to always follow. Survivors include his children, Jerilyn (Jim) Brewer of Hartsville, JL (Kim) McDonald of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Jody (Shawn) Harmon of Commiskey, Jeremy (Nicole) McDonald of Columbus; grandchildren, Jessica (DJ) Lindstrom, Jenna (Andrew) Chalfant, Jonah Brewer, Kyra (Jonathan) Strilka, Olivia McDonald, Shawna Harmon, Corbin Harmon, Parker Harmon, Justin Harmon, Bryce McDonald; great-grandchildren, Tatum Chalfant, Kendall Chalfant; siblings, Paul (Betty) McDonald of White House, Tennessee, James Robert (Mary Alice) McDonald of Haubstadt, John (Sherrie) McDonald of Columbus; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Betty, and sister, Elizabeth Louise (Bud) Goodwin.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 12:00 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church with Father Chris Wadelton officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service Thursday at the church. In keeping with the family’s request, cremation will take place after the funeral service. Inurnment will be at St. Martin Catholic Cemetery in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Bartholomew Catholic Church. Online condolences and special memories may be shared with Jerry’s family at barkesweaverglick.com. Arrangements entrusted to Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home.
