James McDonald

James Lawrence McDonald was born to George and Alice McDonald on August 24, 1950 in DeSmet, South Dakota. He moved from his earthly home in Safford, Arizona to Heaven on April 26, 2021. James grew up on a farm in South Dakota, before moving with his family to Seattle. After school he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps before meeting and marrying the love of his life, Cynthia. They were married nearly 47 years, and had 3 daughters that they raised in Maltby, Washington where they lived for over 40 years. He made his living as a Drop Hammer Operator and spent 30 years with the same company. He was a faithful husband, a beloved dad, a good provider, a hard worker, a loyal friend, and an avid hunter and fisherman. He valued family, adored his siblings, and was a wonderful and proud Poppa to his grandchildren! He loved to laugh and tell jokes. He loved country music and Golden Oldies, big trucks, and dogs. He had a good heart and a soft spot for the elderly and babies. He is survived by his wife: Cynthia McDonald; his daughters: Melanie (and Matt) Nugent, Teresa Holliday, Maureen (and Adam) Sackman; and his grandchildren: Vaelyn, Riana and James Nugent, Hana and Amari Holliday, and Linnea, Bjorn, Soren and Sather Sackman. He was deeply loved, and will be fiercely missed. Semper Fi. Services are pending at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal's Caldwell Funeral Chapel and Gila Valley Crematory 112 E. Main St. Safford, Arizona 85546, 928-428-1740. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.