March 22, 1932 – November 3, 2025
Charles J. McDonald, Jr., a 40-year resident of Reading, passed away on November 3, 2025, at the Beaumont Skilled Nursing Facility in Westborough. He was 93 years of age.
Charles was the beloved husband of the late Norma M. (Abate) McDonald. Devoted father of Mary F. McDonald and her husband Robert Sadd of Uxbridge and Christopher J. McDonald of Shrewsbury. He was the loving grandfather of Bradley and James Sadd and Amy McDonald.
Charles was born in Boston, Massachusetts on March 22, 1932, the son of the late Charles J. and Anna (Sousa) McDonald. Charles grew up in Dorchester in Fields Corner and attended Boston Technical High School. He graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in business and purchasing. He proudly served in the U.S Navy during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Compton.
After returning from the navy, he entered the field of high-tech manufacturing for defense contracting. He was most proud of his work as a purchasing agent on the since-declassified Project Corona. Project Corona put high-resolution cameras in satellites which were critical to providing military intelligence during the Cold War.
As a member of the National Association of Purchasing Managers, Charles was instrumental in developing relationships with minority- and women-owned businesses. This resulted in the establishment of the Charles J. McDonald, Jr. Minority Business Advocate Award.
Charles had many interests and hobbies, though his enduring passion was astronomy. He was an active member of the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston (ATMoB) for many years during the during the 1990s and 2000s. During that time he became a member of Project Astro, whereby he co-organized dozens of evening “Star Parties” with local elementary schools so students could view the night sky. Charles shared his love of astronomy and his wonder at the cosmos with thousands of students and families at these events.
Beyond these accomplishments, Charles was the gentlest of souls—-a kind, warm person who brightened the lives of those he touched. He was known for being someone animals and kids gravitated towards, for always having gum in his pockets to share with his nieces and nephews, his deep devotion to his family, and being able to hold forth on everything from ancient Egypt, to World War II strategy, to all things astronomy.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the caregiving, nursing, and hospice professionals at both Whitney Place and Beaumont in Westborough who provided heartfelt love and care during Charles’ long illness.
Charles will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and we will carry with us all the love and kindness he shared during his life.
Visiting hours will be held at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home at 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading on Saturday, November 8, from 11:00 AM – 12:00 NOON. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location at 12 Noon. Burial will follow with military honors at Charles Lawn Cemetery in Reading.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Charles’ memory to the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston (ATMoB) https://www.atmob.org/.
For directions and online guest book visit www.douglassfuneralhome.com
