Maureen McDonald

Maureen McDonald, aged 64, of Bowie, MD, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, after a courageous 30 year battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Maureen departed this life with grace and dignity, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience.

Born on July 12, 1962, in Washington, D.C., Maureen was the beloved child of James Joseph McDonald, III (deceased) and Carole Anne Waybrant (Beirne/McDonald). Maureen grew up in Bowie, MD where she excelled in sports, particularly in track and field and swimming. She attended Prince Georges Community College where she emersed herself in the Arts program and was blessed to find lifelong friendships. She went on to graduate from ATI Culinary Institute where she developed a passion for baking desserts and pastries and was able to create freely in specialty bakery shops in downtown Washington, D.C.

Maureen was a champion of Native American Social Issues and dedicated her time and energy to speaking out on their behalf. Whenever possible, she emersed herself in their culture and attended ceremonial events and powwows. Beyond work, Maureen cherished her time spent with family and friends, especially her many nieces and nephews and remembered with fondness trips to the Ocean and to Disney World.

Maureen is survived by her mother, Carole A. Waybrant (Beirne/McDonald), Siblings; Laureen Osborn (James), Colleen Deehan (Charles), James J. McDonald IV, Doreen Roberts (Jeffrey), John J. McDonald (Liane) and Jeffrey J. McDonald (Mary). She is preceded in death by her father, James J. McDonald, III and sister, Kathleen Buter.

A celebration of Maureen’s life will be held on August 27, 2026, at the Beall Funeral Home in Bowie, MD., with visitation between 6:00 pm and 8:00 p.m.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 10:00 am at St. Pius X Catholic Church on Rt. 450, Bowie, MD. Interment will follow the service at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Georgia Avenue in Wheaton, MD. A celebration repass will be held starting at 1:00 pm at 3430 Memphis Lane, Bowie. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to National MS Society, honoring her memory and values.

The family wishes to thank the hospice nurses and the daily caregivers for their compassionate care during Maureen’s illness.

Maureen will be remembered for her strength and tenacity, and the love she shared will continue to inspire all who knew her.