Richard Eugene McDonald Sr., 82, passed away on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026 at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on Nov. 17, 1943, to the late James Nathan McDonald and Myrtle Lee McDonald.
Richard was married to the love of his life, Phyllis, for almost 59 years. He was an avid gardener who took great pride in growing his fruits and vegetables — especially enjoying his home-grown tomatoes in a sandwich. He loved working on small engines, riding his Gator, and spending time at the beach. Richard was employed with Perdue Farms for many years, and enjoyed “talking chickens” with his former coworkers. Above all, he deeply loved his grandchildren and cherished every moment with them. A devoted member of Pine Grove Baptist Church, he loved his church family and faithfully served as a deacon and usher, and he was a member of the Handyman Ministries. He will be deeply missed by his wife and family.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Grady McDonald, James Fairley McDonald and Donald McDonald; and sister, Susie McDonald Leach.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Phyllis McDonald of the home; son, Richard McDonald Jr. (Randee) of Winterville, and children, Megan, Hannah and Sydney; daughter, Rachel Wooley (Greg) of Niceville, Florida, and children, Camden, Kendal and Gannon; and daughter, Jaime Bosworth (Brian) of Pinebluff, and children, Grant and Rylan. A special thank you to family members Vickie and Brent Grant and Dodie Brigman of Rockingham for the care and assistance they have provided over the last few years.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, from 1-2 p.m., at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Rockingham.
The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 2 p.m. with Pastor Robbie Caudle officiating.
Interment will be at Richmond County Memorial Park in Rockingham.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the McDonald family.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to Handyman Ministries, Pine Grove Baptist Church, 275 Airport Road, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
