Obituary of Whitney L. McDonough

Our beloved wife, mother, Grandma Vi-Vi, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, Whitney Lynn McIntyre, passed away at her home on Sunday, July 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 68 years old.

Born on October 27, 1956, in Saginaw, Whitney was the daughter of Roland John and Doris Anne (Muehlenbeck) McIntyre. She graduated from Douglas MacArthur High School in 1974, and earned a degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1979. While at MSU, Whitney proudly served as President of Delta Zeta Sorority. A lifelong Sparty, she celebrated her alma mater with unwavering spirit—especially during March Madness, when her MSU basketball shrine came to life.

In 1980, Whitney met the love of her life, Jim McDonough, at Beginnings Restaurant in Saginaw. Their relationship grew over the years and they were married on September 19, 1987. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and family.

Whitney was a devoted and loving mother to her son Jack, gladly sacrificing her own grocery bill to create memorable moments for Jack and his friends. She had a passion for menu planning and delighted in discovering new recipes to share. Her sense of humor was sharp and infectious, and she found joy in classic TV favorites like I Love Lucy, the Andy Griffith Show, old-school game shows, and Seinfeld.

An avid dog lover, Whitney shared a special bond with her beloved pups: Shamrock 1, Shamrock 2, and Magic.

Her heart belonged to Clear Lake in West Branch, a treasured family retreat created by her grandparents. Summers there were filled with joy, laughter, and relaxation, whether she was hosting family gatherings, enjoying an evening at the Clear Lake Bar & Grill, or sipping a favorite cocktail as the sun set. Jim and Whitney enjoyed traveling annually to Florida with friends Martha and Chris, visiting new towns and beach coastlines on each trip. She also adopted her mother’s passion for decorating and celebrating the Christmas season.

Whitney's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim; her son, Jack (Ashley) McDonough; her beloved grandson, Quinn, who knew her as “Vi-Vi”; her sister, Kelly McIntyre Paige; nieces Morgan (Jerry) Nowicki and their children, Carson and Stella, and Taylor (Brian) Cleland; brother-in-law David (Ashley) McDonough and their children Kelli McDonough, David (Brandi) McDonough, Aaron (Sarah) McDonough, and Marc (Jessica) McDonough; and sister-in-law Mary Sheckler.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, David Paige.

Whitney’s kindness, laughter, and generous spirit touched many lives. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family would also like to extend their gratitude to Wellspring Hospice Services for their dedication and excellent care and kindness during the family’s difficult time.

Family and friends will gather at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603 on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m. Rev. Mark Auernhamer will officiate with private entombment at Oakwood Mausoleum.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to Clear Lake Volunteer Fire Association or the American Cancer Society. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com