James Michael "Mike" McDonald

James Michael “Mike” McDonald, 80, passed away on January 22, 2026, in Grand Saline, Texas. Mike was born on October 7, 1945, in Decatur, Texas, to Joy McGee and Robert McDonald of Alvord. He graduated from Alvord High School in 1964, and married Glenice Evalyn Nivens, on July 24, 1965, in Oklahoma City. In 2025, they joyfully celebrated 60 years of marriage, a testament to their love and commitment.

Mike graduated from Cooke County Junior College in the late 1960s and from the Fort Worth Police Academy. He dedicated his early career to law enforcement, ultimately serving as a Detective with the Denton Police Department. Later in life, he continued his service to others through his work with the United States Postal Service, from which he eventually retired, after 30 years of service.

Never one to stop learning or serving, Mike later graduated from Brown Trail School of Preaching and earned his Bachelor of Religious Education (B.R.E.) degree from Tennessee Bible College. He faithfully preached at several congregations, including Chico Church of Christ, Old Town Church of Christ in Krum, and Laguna Park Church of Christ, before retiring and moving to Grand Saline.

Mike deeply loved God, the church, his family, and his country. He spent countless hours reading, studying, and praying. Early mornings often found him quietly sipping coffee in his rocking chair on the front porch, a simple routine that brought him peace.

An avid reader, Mike built an extensive personal library and took joy in sharing books with others. He loved Bluegrass, Folk, and Gospel music and spent many happy hours playing the banjo, guitar, and fiddle. His creative spirit showed through his hobbies, which included woodworking, where he crafted toys, carvings, and pens, and later in life, oil painting and gunsmithing.

Family was at the heart of Mike’s life. He created countless cherished memories taking his sons camping and to Bluegrass festivals, traditions he lovingly continued with his grandchildren as they grew up.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Marian and Randy McDonald.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Glenice McDonald of Grand Saline; sons, Wess McDonald and wife Reshae of Grand Saline, and Ted McDonald and wife Belinda of Wills Point; brother, Dan McDonald and wife Rose Ann of Hurst; sisters-in-law, Irene McDonald of Alvord, and Cappi Rusnak and husband David of Baton Rouge, LA; five grandchildren, Shara Dixon and husband Ivan, Jenna Martin and husband Matt, Brayden McDonald and fiancée Paige, Kayla Shannon and husband Kevin, and Ty Walker; great-grandchildren, Kadin, Judson, Miles, Casey, and Hallie, with another great-grandbaby on the way; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A visitation will be held Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Grand Saline Church of Christ, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:30 p.m., officiated by Kyle White.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to Azalea Trail Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center in Grand Saline.