Joan Louise McDonald

Joan Louise McDonald, 78, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, in Mineral Wells, Texas.

Joan was born on December 2, 1947, in Winters, Texas, to Wilhelm and Christine Ahrens. She grew up on a West Texas farm alongside her two brothers, surrounded by dogs, chickens, barn cats, and plenty of livestock. It was there, from an early age, that Joan developed her lifelong love of growing things. She was never afraid of hard work, getting her hands dirty, or caring for something until it flourished.

Joan earned her degree in Elementary Education from San Angelo State University and devoted more than 50 years to serving the Mineral Wells community. She began by caring for children in her own home, then went on to teach second grade for nearly 30 years. Later, she served as a reading specialist and dyslexia specialist, helping countless children discover the confidence and joy that came from learning.

Her love for children extended beyond the classroom. Joan served faithfully at her church, leading the children’s ministry while her own daughters were young. In her later years, she continued to serve children through Backpack Buddies, an organization supporting underprivileged children in the community. Caring for others was not simply something Joan did—it was a part of who she was.

Joan also had a creative and generous spirit. Her mother, a skilled seamstress, taught Joan to sew when she was a young girl, and Joan carried that gift throughout her life. She enjoyed making clothes for herself and her daughters, and after her daughters were grown, she discovered a deep love for quilting. Many babies born into the family and many families throughout Mineral Wells were blessed with one of Joan’s beautiful, lovingly made quilts. Each one was a gift of warmth, time, creativity, and love.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Angela and Laci; her grandchildren, Aria, Shawn and his wife, Andrea; and her great-grandchildren, Reece and Mason. She is also lovingly

Service information:

Memorial and Fellowship:

Historic Lillian Peek Home Ec. Cottage

215 N.W. 5th Ave.

Mineral Wells TX 76067

Sunday, September 13th 2026 1:00-3:00

Funeral Service:

Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home

302 West Hubbard St.

Mineral Wells, TX 76067

Sunday, September 13th 2026 Starting at 3:15

Graveside Service:

St. John’s Lutheran Church

Winters, TX

Date and Time TBD

Remembered with love in Mineral Wells, TX 76067.

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