Samuel Graham Daniels Macdonald

Sam Macdonald died suddenly in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 1, 2021. He is survived by his son, Kai Larson Macdonald; Maile Macdonald, his former wife; his parents, Kate Daniels and Geoff Macdonald; his siblings, Gus (Sarah Jennings) and Janey Macdonald; his former parents in law, Liesl and Joey McLiney; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins; and an unbelievably large group of devoted friends, including Adrian Thompson, James Dade, and Matt Smith.

Sam was born in Gainesville, Florida, on January 21, 1986. From birth, he was our Bubby and our Merry Saucy Lad. He attended Catholic schools in Baton Rouge, Durham, and Nashville, and graduated in 2004 from Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville where his Latin teacher called him his “window of light” for the avidity of his interest. He was a member of a remarkable class of young men who twice delivered the state football championship. Sam was All-State, and played left guard with vigor and gusto that is still remembered. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2012 with a degree in environmental studies.

Sam was an enthusiast, a lover of life, an embracer of challenges, and a lifelong autodidact. He loved to learn and had multitudinous interest ranging from sous vide cooking, to organic gardening, hunting, politics, literature, the NFL draft, and the lives of every person he came into contact with. Most people who met him found him unforgettable. His tragic death leaves many in shock and deep mourning. The family urges all who discern signs of ongoing despairing depressing and increased alcohol consumption to seek professional help as part of their concern and support for their suffering loved one. Alcoholism is a family illness.

Contributions in Sam’s memory can be made to the Kai Macdonald Educational Fund, c/o Kate Daniels, 1404 Beechwood Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212.

We thank everyone for their extraordinary outpouring of love.