Shirley Ann Johnson McDonald was born on August 11, 1950, in Fayetteville, NC to the late Robert and Gladys Johnson. She peacefully entered eternal rest on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Shirley received her early education in the Cumberland County School System attending Newbold Training Elementary, Washington Drive Junior High School, and E.E. Smith Senior High School. A proud graduate of E.E. Smith's Class of 1968, Shirley carried the values of excellence, service, and leadership instilled there throughout her life. She continued her academic journey at Johnson C. Smith University where she earned her bachelor's degree in 1972. She later obtained a master's degree from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In May 1972, she married the love of her life, Louis Edward McDonald, Sr. From this union, two children were born: Louis Edward McDonald, Jr. and Shira Janeé McDonald. Shirley devoted her professional life to serving others working as a social worker with the Department of Social Services and later continuing her work with Veterans Affairs. She was a dedicated social worker for 35 years prior to retiring. She also was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Shirley accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior at an early age and was a dedicated and active member of College Heights Presbyterian Church. She believed in helping people and her contagious smile put people at ease.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Louis McDonald, Sr., her parents, and her sister—Westra McGahee.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her children—Louis McDonald, Jr. (Cynthia), Shira McDonald; granddaughters—Siana McBean and Nadia McDonald; devoted friends—Carolyn and Katrina, and a host of other relatives and friends.