Byron Jerrod

Mcdonald

With a heart full of faith and a life wrapped in grace, Byron Jerrod McDonald peacefully entered eternal rest on August 5, 2025. Born in
Chipley, Florida, to Charles McDonald, Sr. & Pearl Lena McDonald. Byron lived a life defined by love—for his children, his family,
and his Florida State Seminoles.

From a young age, Byron embraced his faith and became a devoted member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Chipley, Florida. His spiritual foundation guided him through every chapter of life, including his honorable service in the U.S. Army from 1995 to 1999. Like his father, Charles McDonald, Sr and his uncle, James "Roy" McDonald, Byron was a staunch employee of CSX Railroad until he retired.

He was a man of quiet strength and deep conviction, always ready to lend a hand, offer a prayer, or share a laugh. But Byron's greatest joy—his deepest purpose—was being a father. His love for his children was fierce, unwavering, and unconditional. He poured his heart into raising his children, Nyajah King of Palm Coast, FL, Staff Sergeant Jahaan King of Osan Air Base South Korea, and Mishelle McDonald of Tallahassee, FL. He shared these children with his former wife, Ciawanda "Neka" McDonald of Palm Coast, FL. Whether cheering from the sidelines, offering life advice, or simply being present, Byron was the kind of father whose love left no doubt. His children were his pride, his legacy, and his greatest accomplishment. Family meant everything to Byron.

He had one sibling, Charles "Mike" McDonald, Jr. (Darlene), his nieces Ineeke McDonald and Precious McDonald, and nephew Charles "Bud" McDonald, III all of Tallahassee, FL. He held close the bonds of extended family—his aunts, uncles, cousins, great nieces, great nephews plus loved ones from both the Boston and McDonald sides. Byron was the kind of man who remembered birthdays, showed up for milestones, and made everyone feel seen and valued.

A proud graduate of Chipley High School, Byron's love for sports began early and never faded. He excelled in youth athletics and carried that passion into adulthood, coaching football and serving on the Big Bend Pop Warner Board of Directors. But nothing rivaled his devotion to Florida State football. Byron was a die hard Seminoles fan—he didn't just watch the games, he lived them. His weekends were planned around kickoff, and his loyalty to FSU ran deep. Win or lose, Byron wore Garnet and Gold with pride. Outside of football, Byron found peace in spending time with his friend group called 900, hunting and fishing. As a member of the Bass Anglers of Tallahassee, he spent countless hours on the water, casting lines and soaking in the quiet beauty of nature. He was also a PHA (Prince Hall Affiliated) Master Mason, a role he held with dignity and honor.

Byron was preceded in death by his mother, Pearl Lena McDonald, his grandparents, and many beloved family members. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty – a life lived with purpose and heart.  To know Byron "B-Love" was to be loved by him. He walked through life with humility, compassion, and a quiet strength that lifted others. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, especially in the lives of his children, who carry forward the best parts of him.

Forever a father. Forever a Seminole. Forever loved.