Patricia Diane McDonald, 68, was born September 24, 1952, to Paul Z. Wilson Sr. and Carrie Mae Campbell Wilson, in Gulfport, Mississippi, where she remained until her earthly departure. Ms. McDonald made a peaceful transition into eternal rest, Friday, September 17, 2021.

Mrs. McDonald, a lifelong resident of Gulfport, was educated in the Gulfport School District. She attended Greater Freewill Church of God In Christ (COGIC) where she worshiped. Mrs. McDonald was also a member of the Gulfport Elks Lodge.

Mrs. McDonald has always exemplified the attributes and characteristics of a community pillar. She was a beautiful and caring soul. Mrs. McDonald was always there to lend a hand to mothers who needed a sitter or simply a break from life's day to day pressures. Helping children and families was not something foreign to her, as it was reflected in her career. Mrs. McDonald worked many years for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community Action Agency's Head Start Program (MGCAA). In this role, she ensured that children were transported to and from school safely.

Her soft, quiet, and humble spirit made you feel as though you could talk to her about anything. Mrs. McDonald was a rare gem, not only to her children, but to her community and although many are saddened by her earthly departure. The family considers themselves especially blessed to have shared life with Mrs. McDonald and is forever grateful that God graced them to call her daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. May her life and legacy be a blessing to all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul Z. Wilson, Sr. and Carrie Campbell Wilson; three brothers, Wilbur Charles Wilson, Willie James Wilson, and Paul Z. Wilson, Jr.; and one grandchild, Kendrell McDonald.

Mrs. McDonald is survived by five children, Cherronda (Steve, Sr.) McCord, Bridget (Greg) Arnold, Shandria Turnbough, Dameian McDonald, Sr., and Ahtavia McDonald (Theodore Watkins, Sr.) all of Gulfport, Mississippi; 15 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; two special friends, Rose Savage and Vera Walker; a host of godchildren; nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.