Dennis McDonald

Dennis Frankie McDonald 

June 5, 1948 – June 6, 2025

Dennis Frankie McDonald, a devoted husband, loving father, treasured grandad, and faithful follower of Christ, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. Just one day after his 77th birthday, Dennis was welcomed into the arms of Jesus and joyfully reunited with his son, Brad.

Born in Abilene, Texas on June 5, 1948, Dennis was the son of Charlie and Loella McDonald. He spent his early childhood in Buffalo Gap, attending Buffalo Gap Elementary, before the family moved to Abilene where he continued his education at Madison Junior High and Wylie High School. Buffalo Gap was his favorite place on this earth. He had many cherished childhood memories there that he spoke about often.

On October 18, 1968, Dennis married the love of his life, Charolett Bilbrey, giving her a ring after just two weeks of knowing each other. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and family. They raised two children, Brad and Mindy, in a home full of warmth, prayer, and encouragement. Dennis was a hands-on dad and later, a deeply devoted grandad to his three cherished grandchildren.

A skilled mechanic with a heart for restoration, Dennis spent 30 years working at Gregory Auto Service. His passion for cars—especially hot rods—was unmistakable. He lovingly rebuilt many of his own, pouring time and pride into each project. Some of his happiest moments were spent cruising beside his son Brad, sharing their mutual love of classic cars at local cruise nights. He also spent many weekends taking his daughter Mindy, to the Buffalo Gap Flea Market where they walked around looking for treasures and buying hot porkrinds.

Dennis was a man of deep and steady faith. A lifelong believer, he grew up in church and made his relationship with Christ the cornerstone of his life and family. He faithfully prayed for his children and grandchildren every day and gently led his family to walk with the Lord and "pray about everything." His quiet spiritual leadership left a lasting legacy of faith.

His grandchildren will always remember his warm greetings of "Kiddo," "Add," and "T"—the special nicknames he gave them. They’ll never forget how he made BBQ weenies for them, attended every event he could, and was always their biggest fan, cheering them on no matter what. Those simple, sacred traditions will live on in the hearts of those who loved him most.

Dennis is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Charolett Bilbrey McDonald of Clyde; his daughter Mindy Broadfoot and husband Terry of Clyde; granddaughter Addison Wyatt of Lubbock; granddaughter Haley McDonald of Eula; and grandson Tanner Broadfoot of Clyde. He is also survived by his brother Jerry McDonald and wife Lynda of Hamby; sister Sandra Hollowell of Abilene; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son Brad McDonald, whom he has now reunited with in heaven; his parents Charlie and Loella McDonald; his in-laws W.C. and Gladys Bilbrey; brother-in-law Tommy Hollowell; and many other dear relatives.

Pallbearers will be Terry Broadfoot, Tanner Broadfoot, Tommy Hollowell, Dan Balich, Chad Chance and Leigh Ferguson.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 10th, at 1:00 p.m. at Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, followed by a celebration of Dennis’s life at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel. Jared Owens will officiate. Graveside will be at Buffalo Gap Cemetery.

Dennis’s life was marked by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering faith. Though he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, restored and rejoicing in heaven—just as he often spoke of.

“Now the race is run, the work is done, and the man we love is home.”