Obituary of Geraldine M. McDonald

McDONALD, Geraldine M. "Jerry" of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2014 at Luther Manor, with her family by her side. She was 85 years old. Geraldine Miriam Phelps was born on April 1, 1929 in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Carl E. and Mary (Schneider) Phelps. She married the love of her life, Arthur R. McDonald on December 24, 1949 at St. Mary Cathedral in Saginaw. Jerry was a proud graduate of Saginaw High School, class of 1947. She began working for the City of Saginaw as a permanent temporary worker, and throughout her career she had nearly worked every department. Jerry enjoyed her hobby as an antique dealer throughout the community. She was a member of the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption. Jerry was an avid doll collector and had a passion for dollology, the study and collection of dolls. She was also proud and loyal to the Republican Party. Furthermore, Jerry enjoyed genealogy, playing piano, singing, and gambling of any kind. Throughout her life she cherished the times she was able to travel. Above all, Jerry loved and treasured her family and friends. Surviving are three daughters: Valerie McDonald of Kalamazoo, Kathleen (Doug) Martin of Traverse City, and Kimberly (Pete) Garcia of Saginaw; nine grandchildren: Branden (Michelle) Lynes, Aimee (Jeff) Torok, Melissa (Tyler) Fabricant, Kyle (Christine) Lynes, Courtney (Matthew) Robishaw, Breck (Lucy) Martin, Jeffrey Gill, Tyler Martin and McKenzie Martin; seven great-grandchildren: Ben, Ally, Samantha, Henry, Kiley, Eli and Luke; two brothers: William R. (Mary) Phelps of Clover, SC; Donald E. (Kay) Phelps of Springfield, OH. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and especially her dear friend and caregiver, Jeanne DeLa Cruz, who was with her until the end. She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Richard Carl Phelps. FUNERAL: Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at The Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 615 Hoyt Ave. Rev. Fr. James Bessert will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow in Oakwood Mausoleum. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Vigil Service will take place at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday evening. Jerry will lie in state at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Wounded Warriors Project. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.