John Richard McDonald, 52, of Charleston, South Carolina, formally of Fairmont, West Virginia, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025 at his residence following a short illness.
John was born September 11, 1972 in Fairmont, West Virginia, son of Deborah Gardner McDonald and the late David Eugene McDonald. John graduated from Fairmont Senior High School and Fairmont State College. He was an avid WVU and Steelers fan. He also loved NASCAR.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his sister, Michelle “Shelley” McDonald Gilston (Sam) of Charleston, SC; nephews, Noah and Max; cousins, Eric Gardner (Amy), and Valerie Powers (Neil); and his beloved Schnauzer, Lukas.
He was preceded in death by his father, David Eugene McDonald; infant brother, William; paternal grandparents, John and Pauline McDonald; maternal grandparents, William and Thelma Gardner; and uncle, Richard Gardner.
Memorials may be made to the The Trevor Project, PO Box 69232, West Hollywood CA, 90069, or to Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406, or to Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412.
A Memorial Service will be held in West Virginia with family and friends at a later date.
