Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Mary Jo MacDonald Obituary
86, of Louisville, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 24, 2015.
She was born on "Good Friday," April 6, 1928 in Detroit, MI to the late Louis and Josephine Leonard Rowland. Mary Jo attended Marygrove College in Detroit, MI, where she earned her Bachelors Degree as well as master's degree in psychology. Upon graduating she became an elementary teacher, teaching kindergarten and reading readiness, until she met the love of her life, William "Bill" MacDonald. They were married on November 22, 1956 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church of Dearborn, MI.
Mary Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, William, and her sisters Phyllis Spencer (Robert), Jean S. Korff and Joan Rowland.
She is survived by her nephew, Tom Spencer (Donna), Patrick MacDonald (Becky) who was her nephew as well as her lovingly dedicated caregiver, advocate, and "Guardian Angel," and many more loving nephews and nieces.
Mary Jo loved playing bridge, traveling with her William, and spending time volunteering. She and Bill were both fans of the University of Michigan sports teams (Go Blue!) and enjoyed going to football games to support their team.
Most dear to her heart was being involved and volunteering at Maryhurst. She was introduced to the program in 1978 when she became the Friday receptionist, a position she held for many years. During her time there, Mary Jo served as a surrogate parent for several Maryhurst girls. It was her belief that every girl should have the opportunity for a well-balance emotional life, free from anxiety about the future, and also have an education while learning skills which enable her to support herself in a happy and productive life. Maryhurst provides that for many girls, past and present.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Nazareth Home who took great care of Mary Jo during her final days.
The funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2015 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1960 Bardstown Road. Visitation will precede the Mass at St. Francis beginning at 9:30am in the church. Ratterman and Sons, 3800 Bardstown Road was entrusted with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mary Jo are suggested to Maryhurst, 1015 Dorsey Lane, Louisville, KY 40223.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Jo MacDonald
1 Entry
Dan McGuire
March 26, 2015
Celebrating the fact that Aunt Mary Jo is now back with her beloved "William" (Uncle Bill) and a cast of many that have preceded her.
She was blessed to have lived a long, full and remarkable life.
Her candor will be missed. The strength that she showed in the passing of Uncle Bill just two short months ago will always be with me.
Godspeed Aunt Mary Jo.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Mary Jo MacDonald's name
Memorial Events
for Mary Jo MacDonald
Funeral services provided by:
Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home - Bardstown3800 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40218
How to support Mary Jo's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mary Jo MacDonald's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
