Ross Edward Macdonald

Ross Edward Macdonald passed away on November 23, 2024, in Gallatin, Tennessee. He was born in Grand Haven, Michigan and was a source of engaging stories, pithy rejoinders (“Do the next right thing,” “It’s not who’s right, it’s what’s right,” “Pick a bird”), French horn music, golf, tennis, travel adventures and family joy. He was a loving Husband, Father, Mr. Ross (Stepfather), Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother, Brother In-Law, Father In-Law, Uncle, Friend and fellow musician to many.

 He graduated from Ball State University in 1968 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He was a successful salesman for several suppliers and his job took the family to Florida where they settled in the Tampa area. Ross was a tennis pro and started the Bay Area Tennis League. He was a college gymnast and an avid golfer. He sold golf equipment, hover craft, memorabilia and was known for building close friendships with his customers. His love for the French horn (named Ursula), and his skill took him to first chair and soloist with the Nashville Philharmonic Orchestra, Nashville Praise Symphony and First Baptist Church, Hendersonville Orchestra. He traveled with Ursala (French horn), and sometimes Carolyn, to perform in Prague, Cuba, Scotland and Brazil. He loved playing French horn with his brother, Norm, and with his brass quartet. Ross and Carolyn enjoyed traveling, visiting family, hanging out with children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and grand dogs.

 Ross is survived by his wife, Carolyn Macdonald; daughter, Megan Shaffer (Jeremy); Son, Matt Macdonald (Kelly); Stepson, Grant Harford; brother, Ken Macdonald; Sisters, Jane Lewis (Bobby), Jo Garver (Mike), Sister In-Law, Kiyoe Macdonald; Grandchildren: Kayla Swisher and Beckah Swisher; Great Grandchildren: Madison, June, Daxton and Nicco, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Alice Macdonald; Stepson, Stephen Harford; Brother, Norman Macdonald, and Brother In-Law, Dr. Ronney Plemons.

 Services will be Tuesday, November 26th in the Chapel of Crestview Funeral Home – Memory Gardens & Cremation, Gallatin, with visitation at 9:00 am, the service at 10:00 am, and internment will follow at Crestview Memory Gardens. Flowers can be ordered from Mattie Lou’s Flower & Gift Shop in Gallatin or donations can be made to First Baptist Church Hendersonville for the Celebrate Recovery ministry in Ross’ memory.