Christopher McDonald

Christopher Jacob McDonald, 22, passed unexpectantly on October 17, 2019, in Greenwood, Arkansas. He was born on February 24, 1997, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Chris is survived by his father, Steve McDonald and his wife Laura, of Greenwood; his mother, Amy (Sullivan) Southall and her husband Robert of Fort Smith. Chris’ grandparents are David and the late Betty McDonald of Fort Smith, Tony and Betty Sullivan of Fort Smith, Bill and Ruth Ann Daniel of Booneville, Arkansas, Karen Richardson of Fort Smith, and the late Bill Southall. He is also survived by stepbrother, Preston Southall, of Van Buren, Arkansas.

Chris attended River Valley Christian School/Union Christian Academy in Fort Smith through the eighth grade and completed his secondary education at Greenwood High School in 2015 where he graduated with honors. He was a passionate member of the Greenwood High School Air Force JROTC for four years, serving as Corp Commander his senior year. Chris was working at Cheddar’s while attending the University of Arkansas Fort Smith where he was pursuing a degree in biology.

Chris enjoyed music, hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking and physical fitness. He attended New Life Church in Fort Smith. Chris was a compassionate, loving, and considerate young man who brought much love and joy to the lives of those he was around. He never met a stranger, and was a beloved friend to many. He loved his younger cousins and family members, and was always eager to spend time with them.

Chris’ extended family includes numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will remember him with a tremendous amount of love and laughter. His sweet personality and kindness will never be forgotten.

Pallbearers: James Barrie, Phillip Barrie, Nathan Barrie, Dr. Andrew Daniel, Joseph Smith, Gunner Walter, Chloe Lay, Sarah Cate Lay, William (Dunn) Daniel, Hayden Daniel, Caroline Daniel, and Preston Southall.

Arrangements for the funeral service are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Donations in Chris’ memory, or in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Greenwood High School Air Force JROTC Program. An account has been opened at Bank OZK in the care of Steve McDonald. The last four numbers on the account are 2649.