Elizabeth McDonald

**Elizabeth Ann "Libby" McDonald (née McChesney), 81**

Elizabeth Ann "Libby" McDonald passed away on July 12, 2025, in Omak, Washington, at the age of 81. A vibrant and generous spirit, Libby brought warmth and joy to all who knew her.

Born in 1943, in Seattle, Washington, Libby was the daughter of Donald H. McChesney and Barbara L. McChesney (Smith). She spent the majority of her childhood years on Bainbridge Island and graduated from Lake Oswego High School with the Class of 1962.

An adventurous soul, she spent many joyful days as an avid sailor who loved to race sailboats on Elliott Bay and Lake Washington. She was also a certified ski instructor at Stevens Pass as well as a lifeguard. She approached life with energy, courage, and joy.

Her passion for learning and hospitality led her to attend classes at Seattle University and complete coursework at South Seattle Community College in Hospitality Industry and Food Production Management. She furthered her education by earning certifications from Washington State University in Hotel and Restaurant Administration.

Libby's professional life was marked by dedication, excellence, and a deep commitment to service. She worked with McDonald's Corporate in the Seattle area and later with Sysco before spending thirteen impactful years at the Washington Restaurant Association. Throughout her career, she received numerous outstanding service awards and recognitions. She was an Allied Member of the American Culinary Federation, Inc., a recipient of the prestigious President's Medallion from the American Culinary Federation, and honored with an award for Career Advancement for Students of Hospitality.

A passionate educator and mentor, Libby taught Restaurant Management and Knowledge for ProStart and shared her expertise through the Education of the Culinary Arts Class. Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom-she was a proud recipient of a Grand Champion award at the Okanogan County Fair for her work with 4-H.

In 1977, Libby married Gary (Mac) McDonald, beginning a loving partnership that spanned 48 years. Together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and shared purpose. They made their home in Renton before settling in Omak in 1995. Traveling was one of their greatest joys-Hawaii held a special place in their hearts-and they cherished the friendships they formed along the way.

Libby's love for culinary arts was not only a profession but also a personal passion that she joyfully shared with family. She spent many summers with her nieces in the Seattle area after the passing of their mother-her sister Margaret J. Reardon (McChesney)-becoming a guiding light in their lives. Whether traveling to exciting destinations or gathering around the table for meals steeped in family tradition, Libby created lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

She found joy in quilting, working with children through 4-H programs, and opening her heart to dogs who were always welcome by her side. Known for her uplifting presence, social nature, and boundless hospitality, Libby had a gift for making others feel seen and valued.

Libby is survived by her devoted husband Gary (Mac) McDonald; her brother David McChesney and his wife Naomi Nobles; nieces Currie Reardon and Mary Kleinpaste; cousin Mary Lou LaPierre and her children; as well as great-nieces residing in Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald H. McChesney and Barbara L. McChesney (Smith); sister Margaret J. Reardon (McChesney); grandfather David H. McChesney, M.D.; and grandmother Margaret S. McChesney.

In remembrance of Libby's joyful spirit and enduring legacy, we share this poem that reflects her wish for those she leaves behind:

*"I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one.*

*I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.*

*I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,*

*Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.*

*I'd like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;*

*Of happy memories that I leave when life is done."*

- Helen Lowrie Marshall

In remembrance of Libby, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, alz.org

May Libby's memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire kindness, generosity, and joy in all our lives.