James R. MacDonald

James Ramsay MacDonald

July 27, 1929 – October 12, 2024 

James Ramsay MacDonald of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly on October 12, 2024.  Born in Pittsburgh, PA, James was the proud son of Scottish immigrants James and Margaret (Brewster) MacDonald from Dunfermline, Scotland. His early years were spent in Greenfield, where he graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School. 

A proud veteran, James served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1951. He achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class and was stationed in Washington, DC, where he was entrusted with the prestigious duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. 

In 1955, he began a lifelong career with J&L/LTV Steel, where he worked for four decades, rising to the position of Supervisor in the Property Accounting Department. James then settled in Beechview, Pittsburgh, and married the love of his life, Marlene. Together, they shared a life filled with love and laughter, raising their daughter Elizabeth. 

James became an integral part of the Chatham Village community in 1974, where his reputation as the "go-to" person at the Clubhouse was well-earned. He served the community with dedication, from leading events to serving on the Chatham Village Club Board.

James was also a member of the Korean War Veterans Association of Western Pennsylvania Chapter 74. Additionally, he held the role of Council President at the City Senior Center in Mount Washington for many years. 

A passionate traveler, James acted as a travel planner and tour guide, leading or joining memorable trips across the globe to destinations including Canada, Amish Country, Tennessee, Florida, Las Vegas, Scotland, England, Paris, Nassau, Nova Scotia, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and the Danube River. He also recently planned and enjoyed cruises with his family on the Disney Wish, Dream, and Magic. 

James is remembered for his unwavering commitment to his community and his service to his country, but above all, for the love he gave to his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and dedication that will never be forgotten. 

He is survived by his wife Marlene, his daughter Elizabeth and son-in-law James Snyder. He is additionally survived by his beloved grandchildren Morgan Fiona and Jack Ramsay Snyder, who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his four sisters-in-law (Carol MacDonald, Ruth MacDonald, Barbara Aitchison, and Sandra Cousineau) and many amazing nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Margaret MacDonald, and his six brothers and sisters. 

Family and Friends Welcome Wednesday, October 16, 2024 from 2-4 & 6-8 pm, WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, (412-563-2800), 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp. 15220 where a funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 12:00 noon. Burial with Military Honors will follow at The National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at 1:30 pm. Additionally, family and friends are invited to a celebration of James’ life at a luncheon on Sunday from 1-4pm at the Chatham Village Clubhouse. (655 Pennridge Road, Mount Washington 15211). 

www.slaterfuneral.com