JR McDonough, 86, beloved Father, Husband, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, was called to his eternal resting place on a warm Arizona September night. He entered this world in November 1933 in Port, OK, and born to William and Lady McDonough. JR proudly served in the United States Army from 1953-1956, where he fought courageously in the Korean War. He was a truly remarkable leader who developed generations to be strong and relentless in love. His family holds true to his unwavering love, which stemmed from his love for his wife Wilma. The woman that changed his history and the history of those who carry on his spirit. Family was the pivotal essence of JR’s life. He was proud and honored to be the patriarch, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather of our family, and a good friend to all. He has been a major presence in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
JR was a tough yet gentle, loving, caring, and wonderful man. His love has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be supremely missed!
He is survived by his sons Mark and Robert McDonough; daughter Karen Porter; son-in-law Al Porter; daughter-in-law Kimalie McDonough; grandsons Albert Porter IV, Adam McDonough; granddaughters Jennifer Ellison, Ashley McDonough, Brooke Diaz, and Hailey Aguilar; great-grandsons Collin Robinson, Grant Ellison, James, and Lincoln Aguilar; great-granddaughters Zoie Benedict, Kate Ellison, Emily Robinson, Ruby McDonough, Leyla, Maggie, Sadie, and Anna Diaz; best friend J. Bert Roberts.
JR was predeceased by his twin brother LE McDonough. The love of his life, Wilma McDonough who was “always late with her kisses” and now he can meet her in heaven to catch up on being late with his (Lefty Frizzell).
In support of his Masonic lodge, we pray, “Almighty Father! Into Thy hands, we commend the soul of our beloved Brother. The Creator, in His infinite wisdom, removed our Brother from the cares and troubles of this earthly life, thus severing another link in the fraternal chain by which we are bound together. Let us who survive him be yet more strongly cemented by the ties of Brotherly love.”
Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort that he is in heaven watching over us.
A memorial service will be held on October 2nd at 11 a.m. in Rose Hills Memorial Park.
I lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the American Cancer Society or any charitable donation of your choice. If you chose to purchase flowers for the service, use this link at Rose Hills Flower Shop.
For more than 45 years we’ve always known JR to be warm, friendly, and kind. We recognized that he was very proud of his children and grandchildren and that he deeply loved his wife, Wilma. We’re grateful that his final resting place is by her side and believe they will be reunited in heaven.