Robert Louis McDonald

April 14, 2025

CHARLOTTE - Dr. Robert Louis McDonald, 66, of Charlotte, North Carolina, went to be with our Heavenly Father on April 14, 2025. Bobby was born on February 11, 1959, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was the son of the late Edward L. McDonald and the late Peggie H. Hale. Graduating as class valedictorian from Banks High School in Birmingham, he then went on to the University of Alabama at Birmingham and finished with honors. After graduating medical school from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine with honors, Bobby went on to complete his residency in internal medicine at Charlotte Memorial Hospital in Charlotte, NC.

He married his high school sweetheart, Tammy Wright, in March 1980. They had four children and shared 45 blissful years of marriage. They started their married lives in Birmingham, AL and in 1985, they moved to Charlotte for his residency and raised their family in the Queen City. His life will forever be cherished by his children: Amy McDonald of Nashville, TN; Andrew McDonald (Kelly) of Charlotte, NC; Matthew McDonald (Madison) of Charlotte, NC; and Meredith McDonald of Birmingham, AL. He is also survived by two loving sisters, Karen Posey (Jim) of Concord, NC, and Kathy Lynn McDaniel (Kelly) of Arab, AL and his two loving stepsisters, Kathy Carol Maddox of Oneonta, AL, and Jan Gilmore (Fred) Las Vegas, NV. 

Bobby and Tammy raised their family in a very special home on Shaker Drive that quickly became a safe haven for the neighborhood kids and friends. Bobby loved having a house full of people and was so welcoming and never met a stranger. Bobby was the life of the party and lit up every room with his witty and fun-loving sense of humor. He enjoyed hosting cookouts and having parties for all occasions, making forever fond memories.

Bobby was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was kind, clever, considerate, and caring. He had a deep love for his family, friends, and anything related to the University of Alabama, especially football (a passion that started as soon as he could walk and talk). He loved watching James Bond movies, playing Wordscapes, drinking sweet tea, and enjoying a steak from Beef ‘N Bottle. He worked hard and put his family first. He never missed a basketball game or chorus concert. He was especially excited about becoming a grandfather this year as Matthew and Madey are expecting a baby girl in September.

After suffering a stroke in 2013, Bobby adjusted to a new way of life while being resilient and positive to the end. He was always more concerned with those he loved than himself. Above all, he was an adored husband, father, son, grandson, nephew, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, friend, and physician.

The funeral service will be held at New City Church, 2500 Carmel Road, Charlotte, NC 28226, on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. and will be officiated by Reverend James T. Posey. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor Bobby’s passion for helping those who are sick and their families with a contribution to the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte. You can mail your contribution to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte, 1613 E Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28207 or by going to https://RMHCLT.org/donate.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Jessie Marie Haynes

    What a beautiful life and legacy. He was a truly remarkable man—devoted as a father, husband, and healer—and I will always be grateful for the friendship and support he offered my dad during a time when it was needed most. His kindness left a lasting impression, and he will not be forgotten. Wishing peace and comfort to all who loved him.

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  • Kelvin Smith

    I met Dr. Bobby through his son and my friend Andrew. I only had the pleasure of meeting him a few times, but in that short span, it was clear how kind, intelligent, and humorous he was. He handled my daughters with such ease and grace, making them laugh and genuinely enjoying their third-grade jokes. It was evident he had raised wonderful, intelligent children of his own. I’m grateful to have known him, however brief. Thank you for being a great man, Dr. Bobby McDonald. May your soul rest knowing you left a great mark on the world.

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  • Ashley Blaha

    I didn’t know Mr McDonald very well, but knowing Amy and the beautiful soul she has says so much about the kind of man he must have been. Sending love and strength to the whole family during this difficult time. You're all in my thoughts and prayers. I’m so sorry for your loss.

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  • Dare P.

    I'm so sorry for your loss, Amy. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I pray that your Dad’s soul is received into eternal rest.

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  • Monica Murariu

    Condolences to the entire family and friends for your loss. Reading the eulogy and knowing Amy, he was a great human! May he rest in peace!

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  • Kerri (Hale) Turner

    Bobby will be greatly missed. He touched everyone’s heart.
    Heaven gained a special angel!?

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  • Mario Natour

    I didn't have the pleasure of knowing your dad,but I'm sure he was a special person because he raised an amazing human being: You.
    Wishing you peace and comfort during this unimaginable time .
    My deepest sorrows and condolences. Mario

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  • Chip Morgan

    Bobby was my best friend. We had such fun times together. I’m going to miss him terribly. Over the last few days I’ve been thinking of all the adventures we’ve had and I’ve laughed out loud (between the tears) at the fun times we shared over the years. It’s hard to imagine a world without him to share good times and laughter. I pray for his wonderful family as they grieve their terrible loss. Bobby was one of a kind. Rest in peace, my dear friend.

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  • ERIN C CASSIDY

    I remember Mr. McDonald from when I played softball with Amy and all the fun times we shared at their house. He was always so kind, just like the rest of the McDonald family. My heart is heavy reading this—holding all of you close in my thoughts tonight.

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  • Kelin (Kelly Cooper) Haulsee

    Sending so much love and prayers to you during this difficult time. There aren’t many childhood memories I have that don’t include the McDonald family.
    Dr. McDonald was always so kind and loving to all of us. I know that he is in heaven smiling down on all of you!

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