Marilyn May Mcdonald

Marilyn May McDonald was promoted to her eternal home in Heaven on November 15, 2021 at the age of 85, after a short illness. Marilyn was born to Stewart and Inez Crandall on February 15, 1936 in South Pasadena, California. Marilyn, along with her brothers Roland, Rodney, and Duane grew up and attended school in "South Pas." From infancy Marilyn attended church and from childhood had a personal trust and relationship with Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord. She loved being a part of her local church where ever she lived. In 1952 Marilyn met the love of her life, "Mac" McDonald; they married just 6 months to the day of their meeting. They were constant companions and incredibly happy together for 64 years. Their early married years were spent working, attending night classes at the local college, and starting their family of three daughters. In 1964 they moved to Leona Valley, CA where they lived out the adventure of their lives. They built "McDonald's Farm" on a few acres where they planted a cherry orchard and raised every farm animal you can imagine. Marilyn was especially happy to have chickens and loved to ride her horse Reka. On paperwork Marilyn was a homemaker; an endearing term that falls short of describing her range of passions and abilities. She worked outside, weeding and watering the orchard and garden, canning various fruits, vegetables, and meats. Marilyn sewed clothing, volunteered at her children’s schools, and faithfully served in her local church. Marilyn loved to paint. She began with oil on canvas, preferring mountains and oceans, and many of her early paintings were painted while on vacation with her family. It was while in Leona Valley that Marilyn expanded her love of sewing to include quilting. She had an artistic eye that created amazing patterns and mixed colors with breathtaking results. Every member of her family can find one of her homemade quilts in their home. They can cuddle up and soak up the love she so tenderly put into every stitch. She later learned to china paint and even went on to paint portraits. Her work was proudly displayed in the homes where she raised her children, played with her grandchildren, and snuggled her great grandchildren. Marilyn and Mac had an open door where friends, neighbors, and strangers always felt welcome. Every guest was offered a warm goodie from the oven and a listening ear. Holidays were often shared with 40 or more family and friends. Her meals were reminiscent of Norman Rockwell's famous paintings, abundant and delicious. She served cheerfully in the churches she & Mac attended over the years in may ways, Sunday School teacher, choir director, led ministry to seniors, worked in the AWANA program and served on a variety of leadership boards. Marilyn lived out her faith in every part of life. In her last week on Earth she encouraged her great grandchildren to seek Jesus, read their Bibles and pray.There was nothing more important than seeing others come to know Christ as Savior. Marilyn was proceeded in death by parents, brothers Duane and Rodney Crandall and her beloved husband, Mac. She is survived by her oldest brother, Roland Crandall, daughters, Cyndi McMullen, Heidi Stetler, Heather Teats and their families along with many dear friends. A celebration of her life will be held on December 11, 2021, 2:00 p.m. at Crossroads Memorial Church, 1700 Marketplace Dr, Great Falls, Montana.