Clarice Mcdonald

Due to the prediction of inclement weather conditions, service times for Clarice Owens McDonald have been RESCHEDULED for Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 1 o'clock at First Baptist Church, Dalton. The family will receive friends in the Atrium of the Church prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Clarice Owens McDonald, born December 26, 1938, received eternal freedom on December 11, 2024.  She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years John R. McDonald, devoted daughter and son-in-law Heather and Nathan Donahue and beloved grandchildren Lawrence and Sofi Rich, Connor Donahue and Kiernan Donahue.  Clarice has been loved and encouraged by special caregivers Flora Smith, Ashley Love and Jesse Nutt for several years.  Upon graduating from Berry College in 1962 Clarice accepted a teaching job and met John on her first day at Fort Hill School.  They married in 1964 and earned their master’s degrees from the University of Alabama together.   Clarice was awarded “Teacher of the Year” in 1988 and retired from Dalton Public Schools with 35 years of service in May of 2000.   As a teacher and a Christian Clarice championed the underdog - anyone who was marginalized or had no voice of their own.  She advocated passionately for students, immigrants, and all of nature.  As her family remembers her, “If you are the underdog, she is for you.  If she’s against you, only God can help.”  After retirement she devoted her time to caring for her grandsons.  In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to First Baptist Church of Dalton at PO Box 827 Dalton, GA 30722 or the Humane Society of NWGA at 1210 Veterans Dr, Dalton, GA 30721.  You are invited to celebrate her life, love of nature and salvation on January 18 at 1 o’clock at First Baptist Church, Dalton.  The family will receive friends in the Atrium of the Church prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.