Phyllis Aileen McDonald

1918 - 2017

Phyllis Aileen (Scarlett) McDonald, age 99 passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her children on June 12, 2017. Phyllis was born in the town of Yolo to Hazel and C. Oakes Scarlett on February 15, 1918. She spent her first years on the family ranch and then moved to Woodland where she attended elementary and high school, graduating in 1936. Phyllis went on to earn her teaching degree at San Jose State, graduating in 1940. She loved teaching and taught for 12 joyous years in Knights Landing, Woodland and Los Altos. In 1946 Phyllis married Douglas B. McDonald, also of Woodland. She supported Doug while he was attending law school at Stanford University. She left teaching in 1952 to become a full time wife and mother, moving to Sacramento where she resided for the last 65 years. Phyllis was very devoted to her family and friends. She loved to cook and entertain, both in Sacramento and at the family's cabin at Lake Tahoe. She would prepare a delicious meal for her family every Sunday evening well into her twilight years. She also enjoyed playing golf at Valley Hi Country Club where she was a member of the Ladies 18 hole group until her husband's stroke in 1996. She tirelessly cared for him for 7 years until his death in 2003. They were married for 56 years. Phyllis will be greatly missed by her family and loving friends. She is predeceased by her husband Douglas, and her brother, William Scarlett and her sister Jane Washburn. She is survived by her two children, D. Scott McDonald (Karen) of Elk Grove and Joan McDonald of Sacramento, nephews, William Morris (Susan), Kenneth Scarlett (Mary), Robert Scarlett and Thomas Scarlett (Elaine). A reception will be held in Phyllis' honor at her home on Thursday, July 13th at noon. You are welcome to share a treasured memory or story about Phyllis. Donations can be made to Sutter Hospice or a charity of your choice.