Thomas R. MacDonald, Jr.
OBITUARY
Thomas R. MacDonald Jr. followed our Lord home on August 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his wife of 37 years, Nancy (Padleski), and his precious daughter Amanda. They were his heroic and amazing caregivers.
Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Thomas R. Sr. and Teresa (Reilly) MacDonald.
Tom was a graduate of West Scranton High School, leaving the same month to attend University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. It was there he met Nancy. Taking a two-year break, he enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany wanting to see the world. He was honorably discharged and returned to the University of Pittsburgh, this time at the main campus, where he was reunited with Nancy. After their marriage and the birth of Amanda, they moved to Penn Hills and remained there, where they cherished their time together watching every Pittsburgh team and always enjoying being tight-knit.
Tom’s greatest joy in life was being a dad. Throughout his cancer journey, Tom and Amanda spent countless hours side by side, facing every challenge together until the very end. He was incredibly proud to have his very own personal nurse, but even more proud to call Amanda his daughter. Their bond was one of unwavering love, strength, and devotion.
He is survived by his sisters, Cathy (Andy) Tremko and Dorothy Roach; his brother-in-law, James Buckley Sr.; his sister-like cousin, Ann Boylan; and best friend, Jim Besecker, and many nieces, newphews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Teresa Buckley; brother-in-law, Edward Roach; grandparents; aunts; uncles; and cousins.
The family would like to thank the outstanding team at the Head and Neck Cancer Center at UPMC Presbyterian and his outstanding oncology teams at UPMC Shadyside and the Hillman Cancer Center for fighting this two year long battle with us. Tom also suffered from Multiple Sclerosis for 34 years. When diagnosed with MS, he was told there was not much hope for a sustainable future. Of course, Tom, being a MacDonald, lived to prove them wrong. He lived his life gallantly and on his terms.
Thankfully, Nancy and Amanda made sure Tom was able to live in his home. His true comfort, love, laughter, and contentment were always their utmost concern.
In accordance with his wishes, a private service was held at Jobe Funeral Home, Penn Hills, PA and at St. Patrick’s Church, Scranton, celebrated by Rev. Richard Fox.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s name to: St. Patrick’s Food Pantry, 1403 Jackson St., Scranton, PA 18504.
To leave online condolences, visit the funeral home’s website: jobefuneralhome.com
Thomas R. MacDonald, Jr.
August 3, 2026