Steven Alton McDonald

Dr. Steven Alton McDonald, 69, of Morehead City, North Carolina, passed away at his home on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

A memorial service to honor Steven’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 7th at First Baptist Church in Morehead City, officiated by Rev. Frank Jarman. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Steven was born on March 15, 1956, in McComb, Mississippi, to the late Alfred and Gloria McDonald. After graduating from high school, he pursued higher education at the University of Mississippi. He later began his professional career with the U.S. Forest Service, where he worked in the selection of trees used for telephone poles and pilings.

Guided by his faith, Steven dedicated 20 years to ministry with the Church of God of Prophecy. In addition to serving as a pastor, he held leadership roles as an overseer for the denomination in Utah, Oregon, and Idaho. His commitment to service extended internationally through missionary work in Okinawa, Japan, where he taught high school mathematics.

In November 2000, Steven and his first wife, the late Connie McDonald, adopted their daughter, Maria, from South Korea. Family was central to Steven’s life, and he was devoted to his role as a father.

Steven later began working at Liberty University in Virginia within the School of Education Department. This is where he pursued and earned his Doctor of Education. During his time at the university, he served as a professor and assessment director for the School of Education.

Following Connie’s passing, Steven was blessed with love a second time. In 2017, he met Janet Bowen and they married on August 4, 2018. As retirement approached, they relocated to the coast of North Carolina. Shortly after purchasing their home, Steven suffered a stroke, after which his health gradually declined.

Steven enjoyed hunting and fishing, boating, and watching boats pass along Fort Macon. He had a deep appreciation for animals, particularly dogs and cats, and was an avid football fan. Steven loved food, particularly dishes that were hot and spicy, and he especially appreciated seafood and fresh biscuits. He had a lifelong love of travel and discovery, learning new cultures and visiting beautiful destinations.

Above all, Steven treasured his family and loved ones. He will be remembered for his dedication to faith, service, and family, as well as the lasting impact he made through his ministry, leadership, and teaching.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Janet Bowen; daughters, Maria McDonald of Lynchburg, VA and Dr. Christine Bowen of Lawrenceville, GA; son, Michael Bowen (Electronic Technician Seaman of the U.S. Navy) of Morehead City, NC.

In addition to his parents, Steven was preceded in death by his sister, Lynda Marie McDonald and first wife of 34 years, Connie Lee Lewis.

Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 810 Bridges St., Morehead City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.