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Pauline McDonald Obituary

McDonald, Pauline "Polly" Beloved mother of Elmer Paul (Anne) and Gwynete McDonald and Virginia DeBose, transitioned to a new life on Friday, December 14, 2012. A devoted family person and "best friend" to many, in addition to her children, Pauline is survived by grandchildren Paul, Paula, Larry, Doug and Corey; 6 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren; and many relatives and friends throughout the country. Born in Arkansas, Pauline lived most of her life in Milwaukee. She had many interests and a passion for living! Over a long career she had several employers in Milwaukee, finally retiring from Harley-Davidson before relocating to California where she continued to work for several years. Always an active church member, Pauline was a long-time member of Milwaukee's St. James United Methodist Church and Oakland's Center for Spiritual Living. She had a strong sense of community and service and volunteered to support others wherever she was, both through organizations such as the National Council of Negro Women, St. Mary's Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Center and direct donations and assistance. She loved children (her own and everybody else's), and considered it a great honor to care for them. She was an amazing person who brought light, love and laughter wherever she went! Pauline is the role model of a life well lived. We remember her style, strength, courage and love. A celebration of her life will be announced and held early next year.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Dec. 19, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Pauline McDonald

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Jean Mickens-Matthews

December 13, 2019

Your Kind and Loving ways will Always be Remembered

Leon & Sammie Thompson

January 10, 2013

Paul and Gwen, May God bless and comfort you at this time. Your Mom was a very special person..Love Ya!

Sharon Henderson-Nichols

January 7, 2013

Polly was my mother-sista-friend. When I needed the sage advice of a mother for anything I couldn't (wouldn't) share with my own mother, Polly was a confidante. I will miss so many shared moments with Polly--our mutual love for children, storytelling, reading, music, talking and having a good time. Her repertoire of jokes seemed unending. One of the many cooking hints she taught me was to soak fish in milk before frying. Back in the day when she lived in Gary, ID and I visited my in-laws, Polly would come pick me up for a special outing. Always appropriately dressed for every occasion, she'd give me and Gwen the surely-you're-not-wearing-that-outfit look if our attire was out of line. Whenever I saw Polly, her chirpy greeting always made me feel like I was just the one she'd been waiting for. I will miss her but am grateful to have so many cherished memories. Thank you Gwen and Paul for sharing your wonderful, beloved mother.

Barbara Heider

December 19, 2012

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of spending time with your mom learning what a great person she was. I feel honored.

Barb Heider (Horizon volunteer)

Jean Mickens-Matthews

December 19, 2012

Paul,Gwen I have fond memories of the time we shared during our youth. Pauline was always so Giving an Caring. She will be Missed. My Luv an Sympathy Jean Mickens-Matthews

Teresa & Donald Tucker

December 19, 2012

Our Hearts are sadden with the lost of Auntie but OH the memories that we have. Just knowing that she was greeted by loved ones and can't you see them having one of those "ole fashion reunions". Yes we will miss her, but she legacy will go on.Luv ya Aunt Polly.

December 19, 2012

May God bless you and the family during your time of sorrow.

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