Mary "Pinky" L. McDonald, 88, Ogdensburg

OGDENSBURG -- Mary "Pinky" L. McDonald, known for her boundless generosity and tireless dedication to her community, passed away on May 28, 2024, at the age of 88, under the compassionate care of Hospice and surrounded by her loving family.

Her legacy of service and love will forever echo through the hearts of those who knew her.

Born on October 25, 1935, in Ogdensburg, Mary was the daughter of the late George and Elva (McNally) Corrice.

She attended Ogdensburg Free Academy and later exchanged vows with her beloved husband, James "Spanky" W. McDonald, on May 23, 1953. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, compassion, and shared devotion to their community.

Mary's life was a testament to selflessness and dedication. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to various organizations, including Notre Dame Church, AmVets Post 19 Auxiliary, AmVets Local 1997, 600 Club Bowling Association, Moose Lodge, Knights of Columbus, VFW, Elks, and many more.

Her volunteer work extended beyond organizational boundaries, encompassing roles as a babysitter, volunteer driver, Commissioner of Maple City Softball, and a stalwart presence at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for decades.

With a passion for bowling, Mary was a fixture at the bowling alley for many years, weaving friendships and cherished memories with each game.

Her commitment to community service was unwavering, spanning over 30 years of serving Thanksgiving meals at the Knights of Columbus and Christmas dinners with AmVets.

Mary's legacy of kindness and service lives on through her surviving children: Fred McDonald, Ronald (Vicky) McDonald, Richard (Ramona) Breen, Donald McDonald, Florence "Sissy" (David) DeDekker Beldock, Nora McDonald, Donna (Andy) Thiverage, and Michelle Camarda.

She is also survived by her sisters, Loretta Cook and Betty Chambers, her aunt Dorothy Ritchie, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James "Spanky" McDonald, her sons, James McDonald Jr. and Alfred McDonald, her sons-in-law, Thomas Camarda and Cyril DeDekker, her brothers, George, Fred, Anthony, and Joseph Corrice, and her sister, Jeanette Daily.

A Funeral Mass honoring Mary's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 31, 2024, at Notre Dame Church, with Rev. Joseph Morgan and Rev. James Shurtleff co-officiating.

Entombment will follow at the Oswegatchie Mausoleum.

Prior to the Mass, calling hours will take place from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff of Hospice for their exceptional care during Mary's time of need.

Condolences and cherished memories of Mary may be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com, serving as a testament to the impact she made on the lives of those around her.

Mary's legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.