Danny Wayne McDonald

Danny Wayne McDonald, a man of immense love, unwavering good conscience, and boundless kindness, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 16, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at 72. Born on November 2, 1951, in Pryor, Oklahoma, Danny embodied the essence of a life well-lived, grounded in family, faith, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Danny's legacy is carried forward by his former wife of 42 years, Pamala McDonald of Jenks, OK, whose bond with him remained strong and cherished; his beloved son, Danny Wayne McDonald Jr., and his wife, Karen, of Jenks, OK; and his devoted daughter, Keri Beth Lawson, and her husband, Derrick, of Claremore, OK. His loving sisters, Donna Phillips of Verdigris, OK, and Lisa Fletcher of Pryor, OK, will keep his memory close to their hearts.

As a grandfather, affectionately known as Papa Mac, Danny took immense pride in his grandchildren: Trinton, Hunter, Morgan, Kennedi, Garrett, and Bayli. He eagerly anticipated the birth of his first great-grandchild, Drake Taylor, a joy he often spoke of with a twinkle in his eye.

Danny also leaves behind his current spouse, Mary McDonald, of the home, whose love and support he cherished deeply. His stepchildren, Shannon Daniels and Mae of Hagerstown, PA, Carey Southern and B.J. of Pryor, OK, and Terisue Williams of Pryor, OK, along with his step-grandchildren: Jeffry, Hannah, Nicci, Korin, Ashley, Samantha, Courtney, Katie and Lilly and three step-great-grandchildren, will fondly remember him as a guiding and loving figure in their lives.

Danny was a man of great faith and integrity, a simple man with a heart as big as the Oklahoma sky. He believed in doing the right thing, no matter the cost, and he lived a righteous life full of love and devotion to those he held dear. His passion for music was a cornerstone of his life, from his early days performing with a rock band to his later years as a talented bass guitarist in the church band. He especially loved his weekly jam sessions at Sandusky's Market, where he found joy and camaraderie with fellow musicians. His dogs—Willie Nelson, Minnie Pearl, and his cat, Frank Sinatra—were his constant companions, bringing him comfort and joy.

His humor often expressed through his legendary dad jokes, brought laughter and light to the lives of everyone around him. Danny was more than just a father, husband, brother, and friend—he was a man who made the world a better place through his kindness, his music, and his love for his family.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie McDonald and Lova (Wilson) Painter; his brother, Garry McDonald; his sisters, Gloria Jean and Carrel (Carol); his uncle, JC Wilson; and his lifelong friend, Marvin Hedgepath. Though they are no longer with us, the love and memories they shared with Danny remain a testament to a life full of rich relationships and enduring bonds.

Danny's life will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel in Pryor, OK. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at the Bryan Chapel Cemetery in Boatman, OK, with Trinton Christian, Derrick Lawson, BJ Southern, Jeffry Williams, Garrett McDonald, and Austin Mills serving as casket bearers. The family would also like to recognize his close cousin Terry Elliot and lifelong friend David Draper as honorary casket bearers.

Visitation will occur from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, at Shipman's Funeral Home. Those who wish to leave a personal message can visit his guest book at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor. Danny's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.