Linda Ann McDonald

Linda Ann Tripulas McDonald

Linda Ann Tripulas McDonald, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and faithful servant of God, was born in Wharton, Texas, on April 15, 1948, to Gus and Faye Tripulas. Linda lived a life rooted in faith, family, friendship, and service, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the many lives she touched.

Linda grew up in Wharton and was a lifelong member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, where her faith became the foundation of her life and the church became the center of her spiritual and social world. As a young girl, she was active in Girl Scouts and formed friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life. She loved the simple joys of growing up in Wharton—attending football games, spending time with friends, and gathering at the Dairy Princess.

It was during those years that Linda met the love of her life, WCJC football star Johnny McDonald. The two married and began a life together filled with family, community, and faith. They welcomed their daughter, Kimberly Kay McDonald Oldham, and son, Truman Neil McDonald. After a brief time in Corpus Christi, Linda and Johnny returned to Wharton County with their young family, where they would make their home and put down lasting roots.

Linda and Johnny first raised their children in New Gulf before building their home in Boling, Texas. Linda became an active and devoted member of both the Boling and Wharton communities. After working several jobs, she found a career she loved as a library assistant with Boling Independent School District. She remained there until her retirement in 2008, sharing her love of books and learning with generations of students.

Her commitment to her community extended far beyond her work. Linda supported the Boling Volunteer Fire Department, Wharton County Junior College, and the many endeavors of her son and his family at Wharton’s Plaza Theatre. She was happiest when she could encourage others, lend a helping hand, or simply show up for the people and places she loved.

Her devotion to St. Thomas Episcopal Church remained a constant throughout her life. Linda faithfully served on the Altar Guild, Blue Aprons, and other church committees and was a proud member of the Daughters of the King. For Linda, church was much more than a place of worship—it was where she found fellowship, friendship, purpose, and a deep sense of belonging.

Following retirement, Linda continued to nurture her many interests and friendships. She became a member of the Garden Club and participated in a women’s Bible study in East Bernard. She loved reading, decorating, gardening, and birdwatching. Most of all, she loved being a grandmother. She enthusiastically supported her grandchildren in whatever they pursued, whether it was sports, activities, performances, or simply the everyday moments of their lives.

Linda’s later years were marked by an extended illness, including vascular dementia. Through it all, she remained deeply loved and surrounded by family and the enduring bonds of a life well lived.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Gus and Faye Tripulas, and by her beloved husband, John “Johnny” McDonald.

She is survived by her brother, David Tripulas, and his wife, Michelle; nephew David Tripulas, his wife, Katie, and their daughter, Kinsley; niece Alexandra and her family; daughter Kimberly Kay McDonald Oldham; son Truman Neil McDonald; daughter-in-law Janice; granddaughter Cassidy; grandson Keaton and his wife, Logan; and her two great-grandsons, Iver and Lochlan.

Linda will be interred in the Cinerarium and Prayer Garden at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, where she will rest beside Johnny, the love of her life. There, surrounded by the church and community that meant so much to her, she will remain close to him on earth until the day they are reunited in everlasting glory.

Linda will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, steadfast faith, love of family, devotion to her community, and the quiet ways she made the lives of those around her better. Her life was rich with love, and she will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.