Kathryn Redd Mcdonald

KATHRYN REDD McDONALD
Feb. 11, 1921 - Feb. 6, 2012

"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31:28-29


Born in Canton, Georgia, to Elber Perry and Lela Hawkins Redd, Kathryn attended Atlanta city schools and graduated from Girls High. She excelled in business and was employed as the head of the statistical department of Davison's (now Macy's). She married Roy A. McDonald in 1948 and they enjoyed 46 years together until his death in 1994. In 1951 she became the resident manager of Emory Woods Apartments and remained there for 35 years. Throughout her long life she gracefully balanced motherhood, full-time employment, grand-parenting, and great grand-parenting with many demanding needs of extended family. She was the glue that held things together, a rock of strength, and the voice of encouragement and truth when needed. Kathryn provided a moral compass, a safe shelter, and unconditional love to many who found themselves in challenging circumstances through the years. Hers was a life marked by sacrifice and a firm sense of duty, flavored with wit and playfulness. Each time she fought breast cancer, she did so with determination and a sweet spirit that left an indelible impression on all who encountered her. Just 5 days shy of her 91st birthday, Kathryn joined her husband Roy in heaven, passing peacefully after suffering a stroke in December. Her children were blessed to be at her side when Jesus welcomed her home. She is survived by daughter Nancy Simmons and husband Brooks of Missouri City, TX; daughter Sally McDonald and husband Tom McWilliams of Dahlonega; son Dr. Roy McDonald III and wife Debbie of Atlanta. Additional survivors include 6 grandchildren: Joni Johnston, Kelsey Nelson (Jason), Abbey Johnston ( Maw's loving caregiver), Barry Simmons (Lauren), Anna Leigh Simmons, and Christopher McDonald (Mary). Her seven great-grandchildren include Miles, Hannah, Madeline, Olivia, Brooks, Joshua David, and London.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, February 10, at A. S. Turner & Sons. Graveside service will be held at Decatur Cemetery at 12:00 on Saturday, February 11. Rev. Jason Nelson will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the oncology practice that cared for Kathryn for 12 years: DeKalb Medical Foundation, Attn: cancer genetics research fund, 2701 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur, GA, 30033. Donations may be made online at www.dekalbmedical.foundation/org

"Honey, I am perfectly all right !"


Funeral Home:
A. S. Turner & Sons
2773 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033