Charles Mcdonald

Longtime Waco attorney Charles Milton McDonald, 86, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2015 in Whitney. His life will be celebrated at a graveside service at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20 at Waco Memorial Park.

Charles was born November 2, 1928 in Temple, Texas to Herman Milton and Lillian (Ratliff) McDonald. He graduated from Waco High School in 1946 and Baylor University in 1958, earning a combined degree. Three years ago, he was inducted into the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Hall of Fame, becoming only the second lawyer from McLennan County to receive the honor, and the 56th lawyer to enter the hall of fame. He also served as a TCDLA president and board member after helping establish the association in 1971. Charles represented thousands of clients across the country in the more than 54 years he practiced law. Not only was Charles a dedicated lawyer, he and his late wife Kathy loved to travel the world. He enjoyed piloting his plane, navigating his antique wooden boat, driving his many exotic cars, and riding his motorcycle. Charles and Kathy together owned and operated many businesses, such as a butcher shop, pizza parlor, liquor store, radio station, bus station, and a convenience store, to name a few. Charles enjoyed life and enjoyed being with those close to him. He will be deeply missed.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Kathy McDonald.

He leaves behind his only son, Charles Warren McDonald and grandchildren, Mitchell Hunter McDonald and Shawn Lee McDonald; his loving caregiver, Roxanne Bayes; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Charles’ name may be made to Fuzzy Friends Rescue, 6321 Airport Rd. Waco, TX 76708 or The Baylor Law School.