Thomas E. McDonald

Thomas E. McDonald obituary, Columbus, OH

Thomas E. McDonald

Thomas McDonald Obituary

Visit the Shaw-Davis Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Short North Chapel website to view the full obituary.

Thomas E. McDonald, age 66, passed away January 27, 2026. He was the son of the late Eugene (Leona) McDonald and Mary (Ralph) Seymour. 

He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Michael and Terry McDonald and his sister Kathy (Tom) Box. 

He is survived by his wife of 47 Years, Sherry McDonald; son, Michael McDonald; son, Cory McDonald; daughter, Amy (Matt) Noble; grandchildren, Donovan, Mikey, Shane and Brendan; great grandchildren, Xavior and Angelo; close friends and his loving dog Miles. 

In his early years, Tom was an outlaw biker with an intense zest for life. He had a love for riding that was second only to the love he had for his family. His beloved 1973 Sportster would sit in the living room every winter. Those loud pipes would wake the neighborhood and his laugh could be heard as he would ride down the street in what he described as the purest form of freedom. 

Tom was also the scoutmaster of local Boy Scout troops where his guidance helped shape the lives of young men. He taught the boys life lessons through tough love and sacrifice. He gave it his all to ensure the younger generation had the tools in life to make something of themselves and feel confident in doing so. 

Tom had a fiery attitude, and it was often a joke to say he had flames in his eyes. He was an attentive father and friend. Always giving advice - even when you didn't want to hear it. He loved his family more than anything and told them often. He showed his love freely and fiercely. Even down to his dog - his little buddy - which was his pride and joy. Tom's house was always the favorite place to be - because when you were there - you knew you were home. Tom was also very passionate about helping people. He would regularly feed the homeless and help with outreach during his life. He would offer prayer to others and had the strongest faith in God. He felt it was important to talk to God every day about everything. When Tom could no longer physically do outreach, he would donate to charity. 

His favorite Bible verse was Psalm 23 because God was always with him. In his final act of generosity, Tom donated his corneas to restore sight to others. He would have been proud to know that even now - he was able to help someone in need.

The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to World Vision in his name.

He will be greatly missed.

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

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