Joseph J. McDonald, 89, died on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, in Philadelphia, PA. Born in Tamaqua, PA, to Joseph and Annette McDonald on February 6, 1934, Joe spent most of his life in Lebanon as a well-known figure in the community.

A graduate of Lebanon High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Army and as a volunteer firefighter with the Chemical. He would later work as a trainer in professional baseball, a job that would take him around the country. He lived in Dallas and spent a lot of time in Nashville where he enjoyed going to the Grand Ole Opry. He would often talk about what it was like living through the Jim Crow years in the South, particularly as it related to professional baseball players.

He worked as an ambulance driver for many years, later serving on the board of the First Aid & Safety Patrol. Joe spent much of his career working in the building supply industry as the manager of Moore's in Cleona, and later as president of Kapp Advertising/The Merchandiser until his retirement more than two decades ago.

Joe was very active in the community, notably as Chairman of the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce and for many years as chairman of the Lebanon County Republican Party where he had the opportunity to meet many well-known figures like George W. Bush and Dick Cheney, as well as many governors, congressmen and representatives.

Joe loved to play golf and poker with his good friends. He was part of a poker club with four of his closest friends for more than 30 years. He was also a history buff, avid reader and dog lover who enjoyed spending time with his pets and family.

When he lived in Lebanon, he was a longtime member of St. Mary's Church. In Philadelphia, he joined Old St. Mary's Church where he attended mass each week. He was also a member of the Ancient Order of the Hibernians and Association of Professional Ball Players of America.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Patricia Yannuzzi, brothers Thomas and John McDonald, wife E. Jane Krause McDonald and infant daughter. He is survived by his daughter Natalie Hope McDonald of Philadephia and a brother; James McDonald of Connecticut.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Joe's name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, a charity that he supported for many years.

A graveside service will be held Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Holy Cross Cemetery, 20th & Hill St. Lebanon.  A funeral procession will gather prior to the service at Thompson Funeral Home, Inc. 126 S. 9th St. Lebanon, from 10:30-10:45.  Departure to Holy Cross Cemetery will be at 10:45. Please share your memories with the family at our online guest book at thompsonfuneralhomelebanon.com