Donald Jordan MacDonald, affectionately known as “Mac”, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026. In recent months, he resided at Brighton Gardens Assisted Living in Mountainside. 

Mac was born on July 4, 1933, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. He proudly served in the United States Army from April 1953 to April 1955. Following his military service, he began a long and dedicated career with PSE&G, where he worked in various roles for more than 40 years. During his life, Mac was awarded the prestigious honor of Man of the Year twice by the Colonia VFW and later by PSE&G. 

On May 5, 1956, Mac married the love of his life, Joan Rae MacDonald (Barner). Together they built a loving home and raised their family in Colonia, New Jersey. Deeply committed to his community, Mac volunteered extensively with youth sports programs and the Boy Scouts, and he coached many local teams over the years. He also owned and operated a pool hall in Elizabeth for many years. After retirement, he continued serving others through his work at the YMCA and his volunteer efforts with charities such as Habitat for Humanity.

Mac was predeceased by his parents, Alistair MacDonald and Margaret Graf, his sister Gladys Becker (Carl), his sister-in-law Shirley Barner, and by his beloved wife, Joan Rae MacDonald, who passed away earlier this year. He is survived by his sisters: Peggy Schweikardt (Donald), and Isabel Kracht (Richard), his brother-in-law Jeffrey Barner (Rebecca), and by his five children: Donald MacDonald Jr. (Patricia), Thomas MacDonald (Debra), Tracie Holmes (Thomas), David MacDonald (Debra), and Patrick MacDonald. He also leaves behind many adored grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends.

In his spare time, Mac enjoyed reading, hiking, fishing, and, most of all, spending time with his family. He lived a life defined by devotion to his loved ones and service to his community. He will be remembered always as a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Brighton Gardens Assisted Living for their kindness, compassion, and dedicated care during Mac’s time there.