Judith Pauline Covert McDonald

Judith Pauline Covert McDonald passed away peacefully on September 22, 2011.

She was born on December 28, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois to Paul & Cecil Covert.

Judy moved to Billings at a young age and attended various schools including Billings Senior for two years. She completed her high school education in 1954 at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Faribault, Minnesota. Judy attended the University of Colorado in Boulder where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority.

On August 3, 1957, she married her high school sweetheart, Samuel E. McDonald, Jr. in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. They lived in Stillwater, Oklahoma where their son Gregory was born in 1958. Sam was attending Oklahoma State University and playing basketball for legendary coach Henry Iba. Upon graduation, He began working for Champlain Oil Company in Fort Worth, Texas. Subsequent moves with the oil company eventually led them to Hutchinson, Kansas where their daughter Deborah was born in 1962. They moved to Denver, Colorado where Sam started in the real estate business. In 1966, Judy and Sam moved back to Billings where Sam joined in her father’s business, Covert Realty. They eventually purchased the firm from Paul and changed the name to McDonald and Company. They became Wendy’s franchisees in 1976.

As a homemaker and mother of two, Judy also devoted her time to a variety of civic organizations including PEO and the Junior League of Billings. Community interests ranged from establishing the first drug and alcohol intervention program in Montana, to initiating reading programs at Garfield Elementary, volunteering at her children’s schools, and preservation of historic buildings in Billings. She supported many philanthropic causes including Rocky Mountain College, Intermountain Planned Parenthood, Wendy’s Field at Daylis Stadium, and Zoo Montana.

Judy enjoyed skiing with her family and friends in Red Lodge, attending football games, Super Bowls, boxing matches, music, reading, traveling to horse shows with Debby and tennis tournaments with Greg, home decorating, golfing, and caring for the families dogs,

She enjoyed warm climates and time in the sun. Judy and Sam were able to spend winters at their homes in Las Vegas, Nevada and La Jolla, California. Judy’s passion for travel and adventure took them to many wonderful places including Puerto Rico, Europe, the British Virgin Islands, Mexico and the Caribbean. Memorable family vacations included Disney World in 2002, Hawaii in Christmas 2004 and Park City, Utah in Easter 2005.

Judy is survived by her loving family including her husband Sam; daughter Deborah, granddaughters Brynn and Kara; son Gregory (Eileen), grandson Nathan and granddaughter Hailey. Her four grandchildren lovingly referred to her as “Manana”.

We love you and will miss your feisty, strong willed personality. As your father Paul used to comment, it is time to “Go to the Hilands in the sky”. The family is truly grateful to her many caring, kind and compassionate friends, in-home assistants, nurses and doctors. Pat, your gentle hands, kind words and prayer helped Judy pass peacefully knowing she was surrounded by love and the true essence of friendship. Jane we appreciate your commitment to our family.

Judy’s organs have been donated for medical research.

Cremation has taken place. At Judy’s request, there will be no funeral service but rather, a “Celebration of Life” reception which will be held at the Yellowstone Country Club, on Friday, September 30 beginning at 5:00 pm.

Remembrances

My prayers to the McDonald family. I have not scene Judy for almost two years. I will always remember her as someone her cared deeply for her family and her community. I cannot think of a family that has given so much back to their community. Billings was blessed to have Judy. Many people benefited from her caring and giving heart. She was the perfect example of “walking the talk”. She, along with her family, followed through with many projects that benefited others. She was strong, yet sweet; a combination you do not always see. Judy, rest in peace and thank you for all your gifts while you were on earth. Kindly, Shari VanDelinder and family

Our thoughts are with all the family at this very difficult time. We wish you strength in dealing with the trying times that are facing you. We hope that you will find comfort in many wonderful memories. Please know that we are thinking of you.
Sincerely,
Linda and Bob Nemer

Sam, Debbie, Greg and families,
We were so sorry to hear of Judy’s passing. Remembering our days on Mariposa Lane and the many good times and memories we shared. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Dorothy, Bob, Michael and families (Weaver)