Thomas E. McDonald

Thomas Eugene McDonald, 69, of Calabash, North Carolina, formerly of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, October 9, 2026.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tom was the son of the late Edward and Doris McDonald. He graduated from York College in Pennsylvania and went on to establish a successful career in accounting and finance. Throughout his professional life, he held numerous positions, including serving as Chief Financial Officer at Kemper Equipment in Honey Brook, Pennsylvania. He also worked in tax preparation.

Tom had a remarkable analytical mind.Tom approached everything with patience and care. His children and family knew that when they had questions about finances or needed sound advice, Tom was the person to call. He was generous with his knowledge and always willing to help.

Tom was a man of quiet strength, unwavering dependability, and a wonderfully understated sense of humor. Often reserved and stoic, he had a playful side that those closest to him knew and cherished. He wasn't always the loudest person in the room, but his steady presence brought comfort and reassurance to those around him.

Tom was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time outdoors, traveling, and exploring new places. He was a devoted Philadelphia sports fan, proudly cheering on the Eagles, Flyers, and Phillies. Tom also had a few talents he preferred to keep to himself. Among them was his love of playing guitar.

Tom and his wife, Linda, shared a special partnership throughout their 15 years together.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Linda McDonald; his children, Jared McDonald (Leah), Bailley McDonald-Null (Mark), and Darian McDonald (Haley), and their mother, Dana; his stepchildren, Nicole Ceranek (Shantel), Brandon Tannehill, Michael Way (Mariah), Lexie Way and her fiance Mark; and his siblings, Denise Wisniewski (Richard), Mike McDonald (Brenda), Karen McDonald Gigliotti (the late Sam), Janine Wagg (the late Jeff), and Beth Cramer (George).

He was also a beloved grandfather to Ellinor, Luke, Collins, Cooper, Camryn, Devlin, Cara, and Neave, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Doris McDonald.

He will be profoundly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew him.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Tom's life on Monday November 2, 2026 from 5-7 pm at Spacht-Snyder Funeral Home, 127 S Broad St, Lititz, PA 17543

A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday November 3, 2026 at 11am at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church 320 Church Ave, Ephrata, PA 17522. Tom's final resting place will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Friends are invited to greet family prior from 10 to 11am. 

White Funeral and Cremation Service, 4690 East Coast Lane, Shallotte, NC