Larry McDonald, Sr.

Larry McDonald, Sr., 76, of Lima, departed this life Sunday May 31, 2026, at Care Core of Lima, OH.

He was born on July 22, 1949, in Lima, Ohio, the 7th child to be born to the late Curley and Pauline (Jordan) McDonald, Sr.

Larry Sr. did not enter this world alone; he arrived alongside his twin brother, Harry McDonald Sr. Throughout their lives, the two shared a remarkable bond and were affectionately known around Lima as “The Twins.” Wherever one could be found, the other was rarely far behind. Their close connection, shared experiences, and enduring brotherhood became a familiar and cherished part of the community.

Larry Sr. was a devoted Cleveland Browns fan who stood by his team through every season. Win or lose, he cheered faithfully from kickoff to the final whistle, always holding onto hope—even when experience told him the game might slip away in the fourth quarter. His unwavering loyalty, good humor, and enduring optimism were as much a part of him as his love for the Browns. 

Larry, Sr. worked at V.F.W. Post 1911 for many years. While he was working there, he perfected his craft at playing the game of pool. Larry, Sr., was known as the best pool player in Lima, but don’t let Harry know, as he might beg to differ.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Tina Goodin, a special social worker at Core Care of Lima, whose compassion, kindness, and dedicated care brought comfort and support to Larry Sr. during his stay. Her genuine concern and attentive service will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.

He was preceded in death by his daughter: Lanette McDonald, his former wife: Carmen (Hughes) Chitman, brothers: Curley McDonald, Jr.; Albert McDonald, Sr. and sisters: Maxine “Daisy” Hollman, Earnestine McDonald, and his brother–in–law: Jake Hersey.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons: Larry (Lakeesha) McDonald, Jr., Eugene Sylvester
McDonald, a special daughter: Ladessa McDonald. His grandchildren: Larie McDonald, Kylie Howard, Lorenzo McDonald, Darious McDonald, Deonte’ “Tae” McDonald, Great–Granddaughters: Delilah Jane McDonald, A’Loia McDonald Great-Grandsons:  Leonte’ McDonald, and Deonte’ McDonald. His siblings: his twin brother, Harry McDonald, Sr., brother, James Allen McDonald. Sisters: Lillian Scott, Betty Foster, Diane (Rev. Raymond) Taylor, and Linda Hersey, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A homegoing celebration to honor the life of Larry McDonald, Sr. will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026, at Hanneman-Siferd Funeral Home, 506 N. Cable Road, Lima, Ohio. Family and friends may share in remembrance from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Larry, Sr.’s family via
www.millerfuneralhome.net or Miller Funeral Home’s Facebook page.

Miller Funeral Homes of St. Marys, Ohio, is honored to serve Larry, Sr.’s family.