Jerry Raye McDonald, 77, of Rock Island, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the home of his sister-in-law, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 6, 1948, in Preston, Mississippi, Jerry was the son of James Irvin McDonald and Gladys Ruth Harrison McDonald. He graduated from Kemper County High School in DeKalb, MS, before moving to Rock Island in 1969. Shortly after, he began a long and dedicated career at Caterpillar, where he worked for over 30 years. Never one to sit still, Jerry continued working part-time at AutoZone for 10 years, followed by 12 years at O’Reilly Auto Parts, until November 2024.

On September 2, 1978, Jerry married the love of his life, Debra K. Moeller, in Davenport, Iowa. Together, they raised one son, Jason McDonald, and just celebrated 47 wonderful years of marriage. Jason preceded him in death in January 2010.

In his younger years, while still living in Mississippi, Jerry worked as a school bus driver. He was known for his vibrant personality, unwavering work ethic, and generous spirit. A man of many talents, Jerry loved music and played the saxophone with great passion — even performing in a local band during his younger years. He also enjoyed restoring and racing cars and was known to “tinker” on just about anything with wheels. He especially loved visiting Cordova to watch racecars at the dragstrip — one of his favorite pastimes. A true hat and shoe enthusiast, Jerry also had a well-known love for watermelon. He spent countless hours helping his neighbors, often mowing lawns just to lend a hand.

He was a longtime member of People’s Baptist Church in Rock Island, where he found joy in gospel music and fellowship.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debra McDonald; his granddaughter, Sydney Michelle McDonald; sister Martha (Kenneth) Baltimore; brothers Willie B. McDonald and James R. McDonald; sister-in-law Jennifer Heimbeck; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will cherish his memory.

Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Jason McDonald; his parents; grandparents; and siblings Aretha Kimmons, Eunice Raye Smith, Wayne Allen McDonald, Mary Eunice Jacks, Charles Edward McDonald, Esau McDonald, Dorotha Johnson, and Ezra Nate McDonald.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at People’s Baptist Church in Rock Island, Illinois. Cremation to follow funeral services.

Jerry Raye McDonald will be remembered for his kind heart, strong will, and the many lives he touched through his acts of love and service.