Jack Vernon McDonald, 92, of Hendersonville passed away Sunday, November 12, 2017 at the Brian Center Health and Rehabilitation of Brevard following a period of declining health due to Alzheimer’s disease.
Born in Meggs, GA, he was a son of the late Robert Bryan and Ina Ruth McDonald. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Maude “Dusty” McDonald and his brother, Broward McDonald.
Jack attended Fort Lauderdale High School and graduated from Stetson University. Later in life, he received a Master’s degree from the Peabody College at Vanderbilt University. He taught science and physical education in Broward County high schools for over 20 years and was the varsity wrestling and football coach for Nova High School. He served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II, achieving the rank of Corporal.
Jack was a longtime member of Sheridan Hills Baptist Church in Hollywood, FL where he taught Sunday School classes. In his spare time, he enjoyed flying his single-engine Cessna, golfing and fishing. He loved to draw and write. He immensely enjoyed the company of his family and friends and had a soft spot in his heart for dogs.
He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca “Becky” McDonald Sparks and her husband, Douglas Sparks of Hendersonville; grandchildren, Ryan Sparks of Asheville, Heather Sparks and her husband, Jeremy Keller of Roswell, GA, and Ross Sparks and his wife, Claudia of Concord, CA; and four great-granddaughters.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association by clicking HERE or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Date: Saturday, January 6, 2018
Time: 2:00 pm
The family will receive friends following the service.
Bob Sweetapp;e posted on 1/22/18
Coach McDonald pulled me up from the football field where I lay as a floundering 90 pound 4th string running back in 8th grade,1967. He changed my life forever recruiting me to the wrestling team. He trained me every day to become strong and to overcome my asthma. For over five years he taught me to compete and always fight fair. To this day I work out as he taught me. As I trial lawyer I often recount that my time with Jack was the most formative in my life. I learned that I must stand alone and take responsibility for my own losses and challenges. Dozens of other former wrestlers share my love and admiration for this exceptional man. God rest his beautiful soul.