Rosemarie McDonald

In Loving Memory of Rosemarie McDonald Rosemarie (nee Finnerty) McDonald, a beloved resident of Gainesville, VA (formerly of Smyrna, DE, and Allendale, NJ), peacefully passed away on January 16, 2024, surrounded by her cherished family. Born on August 12, 1944, to the late John and Winnifred Finnerty, Rosemarie, affectionately known as Ro, spent her early years in the heart of Brooklyn, NY. Ro's intellectual pursuits led her to graduate from St. Joseph’s College for Women in Brooklyn, NY, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Biophysics. Continuing her academic journey, she achieved a Masters in Organic Chemistry at Montclair State University in Montclair, NJ. In 1966, Ro joyfully entered into matrimony with the love of her life, Frank McDonald, in Brooklyn. The couple embarked on a life together, settling initially in East Rutherford, NJ, to build their family. Their enduring union lasted 52 years until Frank's peaceful passing in 2018. Ro was an avid reader with a particular fondness for science fiction. She found joy in the crafts of needlepoint, cross-stitch, sewing, and the artful arrangement of flowers, reflecting her diverse and creative interests. However, Ro's greatest joy in life was her five grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. She relished spending time with them, partaking in activities like apple picking and sharing sweet treats, creating lasting memories that will forever be cherished. Preceded in death by her sisters Mary, Fran, and Anne, Ro is survived by her loving daughters Kara (Matt) Gallagher, Deborah (Craig) Murray, and son Marc McDonald. She leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of her grandchildren Shane Gallagher, Cathryn Gallagher, Claire Murray, Kieran Murray, and Collin Gallagher. Ro is also survived by her sister Joan Baxer. Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Ro's life at a Memorial Service on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 4 pm at Pierce Funeral Home, 9609 Center Street, Manassas, VA. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 11 am at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church, 984 Suburban Road, Union, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made in Rosemarie’s name to Shriners Children’s Hospital. May her soul find eternal peace, and may the memories of her love and laughter live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Rosemarie McDonald

August 12, 1944 - January 16, 2024