Edward Joseph MacDonald

On Sunday, October 13th 2019, surrounded by loved ones in his Pensacola home, Edward MacDonald (also known as Ed, Eddie, Dad, Grandpa, and Grampi) embarked on his final voyage and went home to God. Born and raised in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada, Ed grew up the oldest of ten. As a young man, he immigrated to the United States and at 19 years old enlisted in the US Navy. His career in the Navy took him around the world and included service in the Vietnam War aboard the USS Regulus. After 30 years, Ed was “piped ashore” and honorably discharged at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer (W4). His service medals, which include the Navy Commendation Medal, show a career of honor and dedication. A prestigious Naval career paints a picture of a serious man, but Ed had a unique zest for life. He was an avid hockey fan, staying true to his Canadian roots. He made a mean margarita, but always preferred a good scotch. He could school you in Cribbage and enjoyed a good game of Oh Hell. He loved to antique, travel, read a good book, take in a show, or just enjoy a day in the garden. Ed’s greatest delight was being a family man. He loved to spend time with his family and always put them first. With so many family members so close to his heart, he created a Facebook account just to keep up with everyone. He had a special twinkle in his eye for his bride, Jo. He once shared with his grandsons, “you gotta find someone like Jo.” For 22 years, Ed and Jo traveled the world sharing life’s adventures and bringing out the best in each other. Ed was a man of deep faith. He was an active member of his church’s choir, the Joyful Noise Singers; but more importantly he lived daily as a humble servant. His faith especially shone in his last months, where he never lost hope and always stayed positive. Gone before him and welcoming him home are Ed’s mother, Elizabeth; father, Robert; sister Celeste; son John Bryan; and many shipmates. Surviving him are his wife, Jo; 8 siblings: Rob, Jeanne, Judy, Jo-Anne, Cameron, Colin, Ginger, and Shaun; 7 children: Bill (Joni), Lori, Chris, Pam (Dave), Scott, Nicole (James), and David; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 401 Van Pelt Lane, Pensacola, FL, on Wednesday, November 6, 2019, at 11:00 am. There will be a visitation and Rosary the previous evening at Faith Chapel South on Beverly Parkway, 4pm-7pm. A man of humility, honor, faith, and love—Ed will be dearly missed. “Fair winds and following seas,” Ed!

Tributes

Edward Joseph MacDonald

October 6, 1940 - October 13, 2019