Michael John McDonald

Michael John McDonald

July 9, 2025

LaGrange, Georgia - Michael John McDonald died peacefully in the presence of his wife and daughter on July 9, 2025, at the age of sixty-six, following a long journey battling cancer. Michael was a devoted, loving husband, father, and the dearest friend to many. His friends and colleagues came to know Michael as hardworking, fiercely independent, relentless in his pursuit of knowledge, fearless, adventurous, trustworthy, and compassionate for others. Michael was the oldest son of Eugene and Barbara McDonald. His parents moved to London in the summer of 1970. Michael studied for six years at Epsom College, a boarding school in the UK. He later attended Duke University and graduated in 1981 with bachelor's degree in economics. Following graduation, Michael first worked in corporate banking at First Maryland Bank and later served as a legislative aide for U.S. Senator Terry Sanford. In 1990, Michael earned an MBA from UNC Kenan Flagler Business School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Upon graduation, Michael joined Milliken and Company. He deferred the start of his corporate assignment to work in the company's manufacturing plant. Throughout his career, Michael remained close to and loyally supported those in the manufacturing work force. Michael joined Southwire Company in 2011. He supported the company's acquisition efforts and growth opportunities in India, Brazil, and South Africa. In 2015, Michael was named SVP of Corporate Strategy and Development at Mannington Mills, Inc. A true believer in servant leadership, Michael spent the remainder of his career working across divisions leading innovative projects and driving growth. His remarkable career was highlighted by his unique ability to bridge differences, create opportunities for others, and build consensus. Michael travelled extensively, often by motorcycle, and embraced other cultures. He earned a blackbelt in Karate and enjoyed bonsai, Japanese calligraphy, and the Asian game of Go. His thirst for adventure included many motorcycle trips and a six-month bicycle trek across the Andes, Patagonia, Atacama Desert, in Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. Michael was an accomplished practitioner of Vipassana, a form of Buddhist meditation focused on observing the present and developing insight into the nature of reality. He will be forever remembered for his kindness and love for those around him. Russell Grizzle, Jim Naughton, Floyd Smith, Kevin McCool, Tobin Hart and Chris Fort were like brothers in their genuine affection and support for Michael throughout his medical treatment. Sharon, Liz, Nina, and Kylyn made a huge difference via their professionalism, dedication, and true compassion in the last few months of Michael's life. He truly enjoyed their friendship and a wide range of spirited discussions. Michael is survived by Wei, his wife of 26 years; his daughter Keera; nephews and niece - Tucker, Tyler, Matthew, and Morgan; and five siblings – Mark, Matthew, Martin, Zara, and Molly. Michael will be laid to rest next to his beloved parents at St. Andrew's Catholic Church cremation cemetery in Durham, North Carolina on Saturday September 27. About one hundred friends joined the memorial service celebrating Michael's remarkable life on July 26 at Serenbe, Georgia. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBMCedjDgA0&pp=0gcJCfwAo7VqN5tD

In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael's memory could be sent to St. Peter's Catholic Church in LaGrange, Georgia, and WellStar West Georgia Hospice in LaGrange.