Patsy Lee (Akridge) McDonald

Patsy Lee Akridge McDonald, age 87, died from Alzheimer's disease on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Citizens Care Center in Havre de Grace, Maryland. Born on November 8, 1936, in Cedar Bayou, Texas, Patsy graduated from M. B. Smiley High School and Baylor University in 1958. On August 16, 1958, she married Lewis Newton McDonald, whom she met at Baylor. After college, Patsy pursued a teaching career in the Fort Worth area, where she continued teaching until she became a mother. In 1971, the family moved to Maryland, where she transitioned to substitute teaching until her children were older. Patsy then returned to teaching, working for Harford Community College at Aberdeen Proving Ground.

Patsy faithfully held the job of pastor’s wife for over 50 years and a full-time job as mom to three spirited boys. She read her Bible daily and shared her passion for God’s word by teaching Sunday School for many years, including the Oak Grove Baptist Church College and Career class, where she passed along her deep love for the Lord and knowledge of scripture to young adults.

Patsy loved dogs and had over 15 furry companions throughout her life. She found immense joy in God’s creation and could often be found tending to her garden, planting flowers, watching birds, and cherishing thoughts of her beloved Texas Bluebonnets. Patsy will be fondly remembered for her cheerful smile and infectious laugh, her unwavering commitment to her faith and discipleship, and cheering for her favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.

Patsy was preceded in death by Lewis, her husband of 56 years. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Janet (née Tyson), daughter, Chrissy, and husband, Greg Grove, along with their grandchildren, Julua and Reba; her son and daughter-in-law, David and Alana (née Hubble), along with their son, Dylan; and her son and daughter-in-law, John Mark and Jill (née Mrackovich), along with his sons, Kevin and Jonah; and her sister and best friend, Carolyn Powell.

A memorial service will be held for Patsy on April 13th at Oak Grove Baptist Church. Located at 2106 Churchville Rd. Bel Air, Md. 21015. Visitation from 10:00AM until 12:00PM and service from 12:00PM until 1:00PM.

To share fond memories and tributes, please send them to the family at 3818 Lauer Lane, Dover, PA or post on-line with Evans Funeral Chapel. Those wishing to make a donation may contribute to the Citizens Care Center Memorial Fund for Memory Care, located at 415 Market Street, Havre de Grace, MD 21078.

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