Darrell Eugene McDonald

On January 25, 2024, Darrell Eugene McDonald passed away peacefully in his home, embraced by the love of his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, R.E. and Jeanette McDonald and, is survived by his wife of nearly 35 years, Kay McDonald; his children, Justin D. McDonald and his wife Noemi, Allison A. Foley and her husband Shane; and Shelton J. McDonald; his sister, Harriett McDonald Walraven and her husband Dan; his nephew, C. Chad Arnold and his wife Jennifer; numerous grandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Darrell was born in Seminole, Texas on October 17, 1948. He attended New Mexico Military Institute and graduated from Greenville High School in 1966. Darrell went on to Baylor University where he formed lifetime friendships with his NATE brothers. He graduated from Baylor in 1970 with a bachelor’s in business administration (Sic ‘em, Bears).

Following graduation from Baylor, Darrell returned to Greenville, Texas to work with his father, R.E. McDonald at Walker-McDonald Manufacturing Co. and then assumed an active role in the family banking pursuits. In 1983, Darrell moved to Midland, Texas, became actively involved in the real estate business, acquiring a Century-21 franchise, and later, forming Darrell McDonald Realtors; and like any good Texan, dabbled in cattle and energy. Among his long list of accomplishments in the real estate industry, Darrell was awarded Permian Basin Realtor of the Year; recipient of the Golden Eagle Award; elected president of the Permian Basin Board of Realtors; elected chairman of various committees for the Texas Association of Realtors; elected regional vice president for the Texas Association of Realtors; and served two-terms as president of International Relocation Consultants. In addition to his business activities, he served as treasurer for the George W. Bush Childhood Home Museum.

As an avid golfer, Darrell was blessed with a great swing and enjoyed extensive travel with his friends, playing great courses across the globe. In support of his golfing passion, he served as a director for his home course of 40 years, Green Tree Country Club.

Darrell loved dogs, babies, good music, dancing, a hot craps table, and far too many other things to list. He would be the first to take the dare to jump, wearing a full tux, into a swimming pool at a charity event or throw a dinner roll across a table at a party if the crowd seemed too stuffy. Darrell was a strong, intelligent, and generous man who was deeply devoted to his family and fiercely loyal to his friends. He was unwavering in his values and could be stubborn to a fault. He was highly respected by many and impacted the lives of countless more.

In short, Darrell was a blessing to those who knew him and we are deeply grateful for the gift of him. He will be dearly missed.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 pm, January 30, 2024 at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, 7405 W. Northwest Highway, Dallas, Texas 75225