With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected passing of Pauline Rita McDonald, 59, of St. Louis, Missouri, on May 17, 2025.
She is preceded in death by her parents Carolyn (nee Caputa) and Richard McDonald, her uncles, Gene Balossi and Sam Caputa; her aunt, Joan Costello; and her dear cousin, Marie Schroeder. She is survived by her friends at Sunrise House L’Arche community; her sisters Josie (John) McCarthy and Rose (Tom) Fagan; her nieces and nephews: Peter, Rick (Alexa), Martha (Will), Mary, Matt, Cara, Ean, Claire, Maggie, and Will; her great-niece and nephews; aunts Pauline Balossi and Mary Caputa; uncle Don Siegal. She also leaves behind many dear cousins and friends.
Pauline was born October 1, 1965 and was raised on The Hill. She attended Epiphany Special Education program and graduated from St. Joseph Vocational Center. Pauline worked at Projects, Inc. for over 20 years before continuing to serve her community in different roles before she retired.
For over 10 years, Pauline lived in community alongside people with and without disabilities. She was one of the founding core members of L’Arche St. Louis, and actively participated in many aspects of L’Arche life, including community nights, the walk-a- thon, dances, cooking and hosting dinner parties. There are fond memories of Pauline sitting in her recliner and knitting.
Pauline’s gentle spirit shone through her many hobbies. She loved to bowl and was a proud member of the choir at the College Church. She learned to knit and crochet at Shaw Community School and later joined the St. Ambrose prayer shawl ministry. A thoughtful crafter, Pauline touched many lives by her kindness through the handmade knitted gifts and personalized cards she lovingly created and shared. Pauline loved all things pink, Mickey Mouse and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Services: Kutis Funeral Home (Afton) 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123. Wake Thursday, May 22, 4-7 pm. Funeral mass Friday, May 23rd 10 AM, St. Ambrose Catholic Church 5130 Wilson Ave. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to L’Arche St. Louis or St. Ambrose Prayer Shawl Ministry.
Pauline was the matriarch of L’Arche St. Louis. Like a big sister to so many of us. Her beautiful smile lit up the room. And her wit and sense of humor second to none. Our loss is profound. We send our love to the McDonald family who Pauline cherished so much and feel priviledged to have been her second family for nearly 14 years at L’Arche St Louis.
Paula Kilcoyne, Community Leader/Executive Director, L’Arche St Louis