07/20/2026
James R. McDonald Obituary
James R. 'Cookie' McDonald, a lifelong resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, compassion, and unwavering service. If Earth feels a little lonelier today, but the heavens seem to shine with a bit more joy, it is because James has reunited with his beloved wife Joan; his devoted parents, Dorothy and Howard; his siblings; and countless cherished friends. Whether you knew him as Jim, James, Jimmy, Cookie, Coach, Brother, Father, Pap Pap, or Friend, he welcomed you with warmth, saw you fully, and loved you deeply. He lived by the guiding truth: 'To serve God is to serve mankind.'
Born on November 16, 1935, James dedicated his life to creating opportunities for others and championing equality. A proud veteran of the United States Army, his experiences with racial injustice during his military service fueled a lifelong commitment to civil rights. As President of the Washington Branch of the NAACP, he worked tirelessly to dismantle barriers and expand opportunities for Black residents across Washington County. He also served on the school board, helping lead efforts toward integrating the Washington School District. For James, every struggle was an opportunity to open doors, foster understanding, and build bridges among divided communities. His work was honored by the naming of the Waller-McDonald Collection at the Washington County Historical Society, which commemorates African American history alongside his dear friend and mentor, the late Louis E. Waller.
James began his professional career in the insurance industry, helping extend essential services to underserved communities. In the early 1970s, he worked with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation before entering the coal industry with his long-time business partner, L.C. Greenwood of the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 1980, James founded Monaloh Basin Engineers (MBE), which grew into a regional leader in civil engineering, surveying, and construction inspection. Upon James’s induction into the Washington County Historical Society Hall of Fame, his successor as CEO, Massy Paul, reflected: 'Jim has taught us all to be better people.'
Throughout his life, James served with more than twenty community and civic organizations, including three terms as President of the Washington NAACP. He helped establish vital institutions that continue to strengthen the community, such as Community Action Southwest and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid Society (now Summit Legal Aid).
Though James achieved much, he will be remembered most for his kindness, humility, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family and community. To many, he was a mentor; to others, a confidant; and to all, a righteous man and true friend. A hero in every sense, James had an extraordinary ability to unite people from different walks of life. His strength, generosity, and comforting presence drew others in and made them feel safe, welcomed, and truly seen. He was loved because he loved. His life was not defined by recognition, but by service always striving to make Washington County a better place for everyone.
James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Turner McDonald; his parents, Dorothy Ward Long and Howard (Huey) Long; and his siblings: Janice McDonald Nichols, Patricia Burns, Naomi Thomas, and Michael Long.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Judge Traci McDonald-Kemp, and devoted son-in-law, Todd Kemp. He also leaves behind his cherished granddaughters Olivia, Ariana, and Alexcia Kemp, and his great-granddaughter, Kristiona Avery, each the light of his life and bearers of the compassion, strength, and perseverance he instilled in them.
James is also survived by his dear brother, Gilbert 'P*e Wee' Long; brothers-in-law: Ron (Jackie) and William (Cheryl) Davis; nieces, nephews; extended family; dear friends; colleagues; and countless individuals whose lives were touched by his mentorship and generosity. Special recognition is given to his loyal friend, Peggy, and his devoted niece, Rachel.
At the Meadowlands DoubleTree Hotel, where Jim brought people together and where his closest friends and family shared countless moments of fun and fellowship, his best friend and God-given brother, Doug Farnham, is entrusted to hold Jim’s seat and keep court in session, honoring Jim’s spirit, their enduring bond, and the faithful, loyal, and strong connections he built with so many others.
A life filled with purpose, love, and service, James 'Cookie' McDonald’s legacy endures through the institutions he strengthened, the doors he opened, and the barriers he helped break. Most importantly, he lives on through the family he treasured and the community he faithfully served. His impact on Washington County will be felt for generations. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Jim’s legacy be honored by taking time to know and love someone you may not otherwise meet, and through donations to the ‘McDonald Family Cookie Jar Scholarship’ Fund at the Washington County Community Foundation (1253 Route 519, P.O. Box 308, Eighty-Four, PA 15330) and/or The Lemoyne Multi-Cultural Community Center (200 N. Forrest Ave., Washington, PA 15301).
Family and friends are welcome from 3–8 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, and from 10 until 11 a.m., the time of service on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the First Christian Church, 615 E. Beau Street, Washington, PA 15301. Arrangements are entrusted to Lantz Funeral Home, Inc., 297 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA--Aaron S. Lantz, Supervisor. Condolences may be expressed at www.lantzfh.com.
