Catherine "Kay" McDonald

Catherine (Kay) R. McDonald March 23, 1935-October 5, 2025

Catherine McDonald, 90, of Clay, NY, passed away at home in Utica on October 5th, 2025. Her daughter Jennifer was by her side.

Kay was born March 23, 1935, in Albany, NY to Leo J. Ryan and Marian Penrose Ryan. She graduated from Bethlehem High School in 1953 and received a B.A. from SUNY Cortland in 1957. Kay taught 6th grade English in the North Syracuse Central School District for over 30 years. She was very well-read, and loved traveling, sports, and her family.

She is predeceased by her husband of 53 years, John J. McDonald, and her daughter Erin C. McDonald.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer L. McDonald and son, John J. McDonald III (Amy Widger), as well as three grandsons: Mark Mallinger (Jamie Kozak), Kyle Mallinger (Courtney Reed), and Moyah Chongo, and three great-grandchildren: Brooks, Charlee, and Harper.

Private funeral services will be at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements by The Scala, Roefaro & Karboski Funeral Home 1122 Culver Ave. Utica. www.scalaroefaro.com