The journey of life for Alton McDonald began on March 19, 1951, in Lee County, Georgia. He was the youngest of eight children born to the union of the late Willie Lee and Hilliard McDonald, Sr.

He received his formal education in the Lee County School System.  Early in life, Alton was baptized at McAfee Baptist Church.  He dearly loved the Lord and remained humble throughout his daily walk.

Alton was united in marriage to the love of his life, Joy Ann Barney who preceded him in death.  They shared a deep and enduring love for 40 years, and their bond remained a guiding light in his life.  Alton and Joy were blessed not only with a loving son, but grandchildren and great grandchildren who were a source of joy and pride in their lives.  Alton was an extraordinary husband and father who was full of wisdom, compassion, strength, love and humor. Family was paramount in his life and he took great care in providing for them.

A man of many skills and talents, Alton was employed as a mechanic supervisor with the Dougherty County School System's Transit Department.   For 40 years, he gave !00% in all that he did; was extremely proficient in his trade; and was highly respected and admired by his colleagues and friends alike.  Upon retirement, he was lauded as a dedicated supervisor who was punctual; always prepared for business; jovial but sincere; reliable and giving; and a man of integrity and honor.  Never satisfied with idleness, Alton also owned and operated a lawn service business for over 35 years.  He was a loyal, resolute businessman who took immense pride in his work, just as he took pride in his family.  In his free time, Alton was an avid motorcyclist with a great love for racing. He was a proud member of the Roadmasters Club since the 1970s, where he gained the nickname "Teddy Bear" and was recently honored for his involvement and contributions to the sport.  He was also a member of the Lockett Road Annual Wildlife Cookout.

On September 17, 2025, Alton's 74-year journey ended, and he transitioned to eternal peace and rest. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Little Erin Hodges; and six siblings, Carrie Hall, Minnie McDonald, Christine Coley, Joseph McDonald, Hilliard McDonald, and Inez Northern.

Loving memories will forever remain with his son, Aljubrielle McDonald (DeAndra Powell); grandchildren, Shermetrius Williams, A'Bria McDonald, Jaela McDonald, Ju'Quan McDonald, A. Devin McDonald, and Eric Hodges, Jr.; great grandchildren, Nire' Williams, Nyla Williams, and Xhosa McDonald,;  a daughter-in-love of his heart, Dawana (Eric) Hodges; beloved nephew, Hilliard Perez McDonald; his sister, Irene (Joseph) Jackson; sisters-in-law, Ramona Ellison, Doris McDonald, and Earnestine McDonald; his special friend and companion, Cassandra Moore; a lifelong friend, Montezuma Taylor; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.