Byron Anthony McDonald

Byron Anthony McDonald, age 79, went home to the Lord on May 10, 2026. He was born on August 23, 1946, to Celestine and Alden McDonald, whom he adored. He was one of five siblings: Alden McDonald (Rhesa) Jr., Aaron McDonald, Rhonda McDonald Weber, and Deborah McDonald Wilson. Byron is survived by his devoted wife, Gail McDonald, with whom he shared 56 loving years of marriage. From this union, two children were born: Anissa McDonald and Travis McDonald (Diana McDonald). He also leaves to cherish his memory three beloved grandchildren: Maya McDonald, Gavin McDonald, and Evan McDonald. Byron attended Epiphany Elementary School and graduated from Xavier University Preparatory High School, where he earned the nickname “The Lord.” As an adult, Byron served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After returning home from the war, he worked for the United Postal Service until he retired in 2001. Byron’s life is also marked by his entrepreneurship. One of Byron’s proudest accomplishments was the creation of Byron’s Professional Waiter Service, carrying on the legacy of service by his father Alden Sr., which his daughter proudly runs to this day. In addition, while working as a mail carrier and raising his children, Byron owned and operated Aubry Food Store for 19 years. Byron loved teaching his children and the neighborhood kids how to play sports. He would gather the neighborhood kids and take them to City Park or to open fields to throw footballs, teach and run plays, but more importantly encourage them to have fun together. Byron never hesitated when the kids needed an outing. He would load bicycles into his van and take them to the park to ride bikes until sundown. He was a coach, teacher and a wonderful storyteller. Byron loved to laugh. When he called you ‘beaux’, you knew he loved you and would always ‘have your back’. Byron was always generous with his time and his spirit. He was loyal and always led with his great, big heart. It must be said that while being a devoted servant to his beloved community, he loved to celebrate and he lived a full life. Byron was a member of the Plantation Revelers, a social service club, for over 50 years. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Byron’s life at St. Raymond and St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2916 Paris Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119 on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 10:30am. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:30 am. Interment will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. New Orleans, LA. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.