Carol Y. McDonald

SALEM - Carol Y. McDonald, a cherished soul and beacon of love, has been called home to the Lord on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the age of 88. She was born February 24, 1936, in Salem, daughter of the late Emmor and Vada (Cooke) Cook.

Her journey began amidst the nurturing embrace of a close-knit family on their Greenford farm, where she blossomed as the youngest of eight children. Her roots ran deep in Salem, where she remained a steadfast presence throughout her blessed life.

A woman of unwavering faith, Carol dedicated over five decades of service to the Salem First Christian Church. Her commitment was a testament to her faith-filled heart, as she was an active participant in the church's Joy Club. Carol, alongside her dear husband, extended her love and care to the church's shut-ins, embodying the very essence of Christian love and compassion. Her devotion to her faith was constant.

Carol's legacy is one of love and nurturing, a testament to her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She leaves behind a lineage of love in her four daughters: Kathy Bates (the late Jodie Williams) of Salem, Linda (Dan) Crider of Beloit, Karen (Rob) Coffee of Salem, and Julie (Tom) Dorn of Columbiana. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of her eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Her beloved husband of 64 years, Keith "Ducky" McDonald, whom she missed dearly since his passing in 2019, now welcomes her with open arms in Heaven. Carol's journey on earth may have concluded, but her story will be told through generations, as she was the final leaf on the family tree of her immediate siblings, all of whom have preceded her in joining the heavenly choir.

Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects and share in the celebration of her life from 2:00-3:00 p.m. Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Stark Memorial.

The funeral service will commence at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Leonard Moore officiating. Carol will be laid to rest at Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church, 1151 E. Sixth St., Salem, OH 44460.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Carol's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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