Charles Shaffer McDonald, III, 65, of Paris, Arkansas, passed away surrounded by family on June 8, 2025.

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, he carried his Southern roots with him all his life. As a child, he treasured camping trips to the Smoky Mountains and summer days at Gulf State Park and Point Clear with his family. As an adult, his love of nature continued with long bike rides through town and countless hours on the waters of Mobile Bay—fishing, surf casting, floundering, and boating whenever he got the chance. Whether in Mobile or Arkansas, he often found peace sitting in his truck by the water, soaking in the quiet and calm of the world around him.

Charles married the love of his life, Lisa, in 1981 and spent the next 43 beautiful years together. Their marriage was filled with deep devotion, laughter, and weekly dates. Together they raised three children: Michael, Sarah and Victoria. Living up to their last name, they also had numerous dogs, cats, and farm animals throughout his life.

Charles was a devout Catholic and Benedictine Oblete of Subiaco Academy. Throughout his life, he participated in Daily Mass and prayed the Rosary regularly, living his faith quietly but steadfastly. In his community, Charles spent countless hours volunteering with St. Mary's Catholic Parish and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Parish in Mobile, where he found purpose, peace, and life-long friendships.

After graduating from McGill Toolen Catholic High School in 1979, he went on to study Communication Arts at Spring Hill College, where he briefly worked as a DJ for both the campus radio station and a local Sunday morning show. His wide ranging musical taste was often played loud enough for the neighbors to enjoy…(or not). "Uncle Charlie's" love of music was inherited not only by his children, but also his nieces and nephews.

"CMac" enjoyed working with his hands and sharing his knowledge of woodworking and household DIY projects; conveying his pride of hard work to his loved ones. Over the years, he played countless rounds of Trivial Pursuit, Hearts, Golf, and Rummy at game nights with friends and family; and was also always up for a game chess with his nephews. An active scout, sports, and band parent, he showed up every chance he could for camp outs, games, and performances.

A storyteller through and through, "Charlie Mac", never met a stranger. He also rarely missed a chance to be together with his family. Holidays were sacred: full of Doug's fried turkeys, Aunt Wilma's gumbo, Grandpa's chili, and hours of laughter with extended family. The 4th of July holidays always brought excitement as the "McConnell Clan" and "Braun Fam" drove in to join the festivities. "Chuck" delighted in evening walks with his neighbor and dear friend, Barbara, along with their four-legged companions, Mollie and Gertrude. Charles and Lisa also loved their monthly Supper Club gatherings with their Dauphin Way United Methodist friends. Later in life, he developed a love of beekeeping thanks to a close family member and fellow bee enthusiast, Steve. After moving to Arkansas, Michael and Charles continued the hobby.

Professionally, Charles was known for his loyalty, dedication, and steady leadership as the accounting manager for several companies. For almost two decades, he worked with Naman's Catering in Mobile, Alabama, where he brought the same passion and care to his work that he did to his family life.

He was immensely proud of his children, nieces, and nephews spread across the country; Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah - cheering on every milestone with pride and joy.

Proceeded in death by his parents, Charles S McDonald, Jr. and Sarah R. McDonald of Mobile, Alabama, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Charles is survived by his wife, Lisa R. McDonald; their children: Michael (Melanie) McDonald of South Ogden, UT; Sarah McDonald of Sugar Land, TX; and Victoria McDonald of Tulsa, OK. His siblings: Catherine Braun of Houston, TX; Otelia Schwartz of Chicago, IL; Evelyn (Alex) McConnell of Houston, TX; and Owen (Debbie) of Daphne, AL. One grandchild, McKell Stringham of Cottonwood Heights, Utah. He is also survived by a large extended family; church family; and countless friends whose lives he touched with his kindness, loyalty, and humor.

A Rosary and Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on July 1, 2025, at St. Benedict Church in Subiaco, Arkansas. Lunch and celebrations to follow in the Roundhouse hall located on site.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Parks Foundation, https://give.nationalparks.org/site/TR/NPFFundraiser/NPFP2P?px=4336677&pg=personal&fr_id=1070

The family also encourages you to gather with loved ones for a good meal or game night. And always remember to play your favorite song a little too loud in remembrance of Charlie's extraordinary life.

Scent-Free Request:
To protect family members with severe allergies, please avoid wearing perfume or strongly scented products to the Memorial Service. Thank you for understanding.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Funeral Home in Paris.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com