Harry Thomas McDonald

Harry Thomas McDonald, age 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 1, 2024, with his loving wife Janet by his side.

Harry was born in Mobile, Alabama on August 16, 1939, to Anita and Arthur McDonald. He grew up in Houston, Texas where he was made to change schools many times during the school year due to his father’s work. He learned to make friends wherever he was and made most of them through singing in the choir at school and at church. Music and singing remained the footprint of his entire life.

Harry left school at 17 years old to join the United States Air Force. While stationed in Florida, Harry met and married Gayle. He became a DaDa when daughter Shelli was born and then his son, Harry Jr. The family was moved to the Philippines, while Harry was stationed in Thailand and Vietnam. Upon return to Texas, Harry retired from service and became an Allstate Insurance Agent.

A people person, Harry truly never met a stranger. Selling insurance was natural for him and soon opened his own business. During this time, Harry and Gayle were blessed with another daughter, Dawn. With two kids in school and a baby, Dawn went to work with them where they managed to care for her and turn the business into a success. He called it Wedgewood Insurance to honor his love for playing the game of golf.

Harry was the most devoted loving Dad. You could see it. You could feel it. Then grandkids! He loved being “Pops” to Cheyenne and Tristan (Shelli and Gready) and Alana and Seth (Dawn and Phil). Children gave him an outlet for his youthful spirit, playful ways, corny jokes, and silly songs.

After divorce, becoming a grandfather, and taking early retirement, Harry moved to Humble, Texas where he found karaoke and friends who love to sing just like him. His friends named him “Harryoke”. Harry met Janet, brought her into the group, and married her in 2012. They loved their beach trips to Gulf Shores, time in the hot tub, and being with friends and family. Janet thoughtfully took Harry to karaoke as often as he wanted because it gave him so much joy.

Harry lives on through his children and grandchildren. He reunites with his son Harry Jr. in heaven. No father, grandfather, or husband was ever loved more.