Richard Lee McDonald, Sr.

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Richard was a man who embraced life fully and brought joy to those around him with his warm smile and infectious humor.

Richard Lee McDonald, Sr., born on November 23, 1965, in Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, in his hometown of Charlotte. Richard was a man who embraced life fully and brought joy to those around him with his warm smile and infectious humor.

A proud graduate of South Meck High School, where he played football, Richard was known for his lively spirit and his ability to light up any room. He enjoyed many talents and interests throughout his life which made him truly one of a kind. He was affectionately known as DJ Sharp and loved to sing karaoke, with his favorite song being "Holding On" by Gregory Porter and Kem. Richard was also passionate about cooking, always eager to try new recipes, and had a special fondness for Fisher's extra thick bologna, making his famous bologna sandwiches with two pieces of fried bologna, lettuce, and tomato.

Beyond his culinary adventures, Richard loved playing pool and was an avid fan of classic Corvettes. His dream car was a burgundy or wine-colored Corvette with peanut butter brown interior—a reflection of his unique style. He also enjoyed watching boxing matches and was a dedicated bargain shopper who happily shared the exciting deals he found with those he loved.

In his professional life, Richard retired from the Grady Cole Center. After Richard’s retirement from the Grady Cole Center, he was employed with Barnhardt, where he worked faithfully for the past 10 years. Richard was a realist, he was a man of many trades—moonlighting auto mechanic and running a lawn service on the side. He was known as a Jack of all trades, someone resourceful and full of talents. One talent that most may not know about Richard is his passion for writing poetry. He truly was a man of substance, depth and character.

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He enjoyed many talents and interests throughout his life which made him truly one of a kind.

Richard was deeply loved for his personality which was full of life, funny, comedic, and spiritual. He never met a stranger and lived every day to the fullest. He was also a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, showing his team spirit with great pride. He was frugal and a good steward of what God provided him, always mindful and caring.

Family was very important to Richard. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Roshanda McDonald, Richard Lee McDonald, Jr., Ricky McDonald, and Trevonta McDonald. He was a cherished brother to Michael McDonald and his wife Juanita. Richard was the proud grandfather of four grandchildren, who brought much happiness to his life. He also shared a close bond with his long-time best friends Luwania Canty-McDonald and Keltrina Henderson, as well as a close relationship with his brother- and sister-in-law Demarcus and Chiquita (Keisha) Canty, and held dear his mother-in-love, Emma Jean Canty.

Richard’s parents, William Barry Howze and Linda Marie McDonald and his grandmother, Mary McDonald, preceded him in death.

Those who knew Richard will remember a man who had the best smile, a generous heart, and a spirit that embraced both humor and love. He lived with a joyful energy and touched many lives by simply being himself. Richard Lee McDonald, Sr. will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

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Richard was also passionate about cooking, always eager to try new recipes, and had a special fondness for Fisher's extra thick bologna.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday June 27th at 6pm at the Carole Hoefener Community Services Center (615 E. 6th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202). In honor of Richard’s love for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the family invites guests to wear black and yellow. While not required, it would be a meaningful way to celebrate and remember him.