September 22, 1944 — February 11, 2026
Thomas Wayne McDonald, beloved Husband, Father, and faithful Servant of the Lord, entered into his eternal rest at age 81. Wayne lived a life rooted in faith, devoted in Christ, and guided by the teachings of the Holy Bible.
A native of Winona, MS and a 36 year married resident of Vaiden, Wayne was a dedicated member of Shongalo Presbyterian Church, PCA where he continued to serve as Music Director-23 years, Diaconate Officer-28 years and Church Treasurer-12 years.
With a sudden, Massive Myocardial Infarction, Wayne was chosen by God to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven from his home, Somerville-Herring. Since 2020, other contributing, significant conditions were Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement and Chronic Kidney Disease, Stage IV/V.
Born September 22, 1944, Thomas Wayne was the oldest of two sons born to Reuben “R.J.” and Laura Frances Weeks McDonald, [deceased 2013 and 2009, respectively]. Wayne is survived by his brother, James Barry McDonald and wife Ila of Oakland, TN. Both Brothers were graduates of Delta State University and participated in Golf and Baseball with a supportive interest in MSU sports.
With a Bachelor and Master of Music Education Degrees in Instrumental Music, Wayne’s creative talent of teaching left a lasting impression on his Marching and Concert Band Students throughout his 31 years in the public and private school systems. Fondly known as “Mr. Mac”, he encouraged a deep appreciation of music as a mentor of compassion, kindness, and an unyielding trust in God’s plan. “In HIS Service“—Wayne served as Director of Music at various Protestant Churches for 45 years.
Thomas Wayne’s faith, kindness, and strength of spirit will continue to guide those he loved. He is survived by his devoted wife, JoAnne Peeler McDonald, who was born as an only child to Avery and Lorena Peeler, [deceased 1982 and 2004, respectively]. Wayne and JoAnne portrayed that Love was both a gift and a way of living—a lifestyle that they journeyed through together; united in their experiences of being the beloved of God. As proud parents of one Son, Jeffrey Wayne McDonald and Daughter-in-law, Dana, the McDonalds and Theresa Graves are blessed with three Grandchildren: Katie Frances, Brendan Fletcher and Jeffrey Cohen. As a Dad and Best Friend, Wayne raised his cherished son in the ways of the Lord, teaching Jeff to love, to serve, and to trust in our Lord always.
Throughout the decades, the McDonalds enjoyed sharing their historic home, Somerville-Herring, circa 1867 with their beloved Pomeranian, “Lady Palmer” [1992-2006] and providing canine foster care [21 yrs] to the delights of many rescues in Vaiden. Wayne was laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery with three urns containing the cremated remains of “Lady Palmer“, “Holly“, and “Lilla Bea“.
A private, graveside Service of Celebration and Remembrance for the life of Thomas Wayne McDonald was held on February 16, 2026 at Oakwood Cemetery in Winona, MS. Among invited extended family and lifelong friends of the family, the beauty of the memorial service, along with memorable expressions of “love and comfort” will linger in our hearts. Reverend Buddy Smith, Vice-President of American Family Ministries in Tupelo, MS officiated the memorial service. Life long friends, Wayne served as Buddy Smith’s Band Director in Ackerman School System. As a talented Vocalist, Katie Frances McDonald, namesake Grand-daughter [age 16], provided a blessing to the Musical Service. Serving as Assistant Pallbearers were family friends, Derick Seals of Winona and Charles Gayden of Vaiden. With special appreciation to Randy Bridges and Bill Herring, Oliver Funeral Home in Winona, MS was in charge of arrangements.
Although Wayne’s last six years of retirement were marked with medical concerns, his life stands as a testimony to his unwavering belief, whose love for the Lord shone through every aspect of life. The McDonald family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Keith Rushing, Primary Care Physician-Winona, Dr. Donald Mitema, Nephrologist-Jackson, Dr. Shawn Sanders, Cardiovascular Surgeon-Jackson and Philip McRae, Minister-Shongalo Presbyterian Church for their medical care and compassionate support.
“In HIS Presence“—somehow these three words tell the whole story and will soothe the empty place inside our hearts where tears are born.
Faithful Spouse—-Loving Parent—-Dedicated Educator