Brandon Carl McDonald

It is with heavy hearts that we finally lay to rest beloved son, brother, father, and friend, Brandon Carl McDonald, of Clarkton. He went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 25, 2021, at the young age of 35.

Brandon was born July 11, 1985, to Jeffery McDonald and Dena Cox. He was a natural outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, race and ride four wheelers. He had a heart for all of God’s creatures and cherished his dear fur babies who always stood faithfully at his side and simply adored him. He was not only good with animals but with people as well and was never short of lending a helping hand or a listening ear to anyone in need. He served his community as a firefighter and worked with several different fire stations throughout Bladen County. It was often said that Brandon was an old soul for his gentle spirit and the empathy he had toward others. He will always be remembered for his compassion, his gentleness and his smile.

Left to cherish his beautiful memories are parents, Jeffery McDonald and Dena Cox (Gary), one daughter Kylie Nicole, "PaPa" Monroe Jones, stepsister Shannon Russell, two very special cousins, a host of beloved aunts, uncles, great aunts, great uncles, and cousins. He is also survived by his dear extended family, step grandpa Rossie Cox, step grandparents Stan and Burlyne Baxley, and stepbrother Gary Cox Jr.

Brandon is preceded in death by his “Nannie” Linda Jones, “Granny Mac” Sadie McDonald, “Grandpa” Henry McDonald, three aunts, Joan McDonald, Janet Lowrimore, and Susie Hood, stepmother Bonnie McDonald, step grandmother Helen Cox, and two uncles Michael and Buster McDonald.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 2 pm at the Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown with the Reverend Mike Jacobs and Pastor Chip Hannah officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1-2pm.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the local fire department, hospice, animal shelter or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Center or CUE of Wilmington/Monica Caison.