Gertrude “Trudy” (Waters) McDonald, age 86, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born in Manchester, New Hampshire, Trudy was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she graduated from Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School. She later made Delaware her home, where she built a career as a secretary and office manager. Throughout her many years of service, Trudy earned a reputation for her professionalism, dependability, and genuine kindness, forming lasting friendships with her coworkers. Known for her impeccable punctuality, she was admired and respected by all who worked with her.
Above all else, Trudy was devoted to her family. She found great joy in spending summers at the Jersey Shore, hosting Sunday dinners and Christmas Eve celebrations, and creating a warm, welcoming home for her children and grandchildren. Her love, generosity, and unwavering support will remain a lasting legacy for those who knew her.
Trudy was a dedicated supporter of Special Olympics Delaware and a founding parishioner of St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church in Bear, Delaware.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 38 years, Jim McDonald, in 2004; her sister, Sarah Waters, in 2010; and her sister, Therese Sabbath (George), in 2020.
She is survived by her daughter, Mary Kate Campbell (Cres); her sons, James McDonald, Jude McDonald, and Kevin McDonald (Hillary); her grandchildren, Creston, Patrick, Tessa, and Colin, all of Wilmington; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 12, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Wilmington, Delaware. Inurnment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Trudy’s family requests that memorial contributions be made to Special Olympics Delaware in Trudy’s memory, 619 South College Ave. Newark, Delaware 19716.
For online condolences, please visit: mccreryandharra.com
