Joseph Rodney MacDonald

Joseph Rodney MacDonald, of Chelsea, passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025. He was 81.

Joseph was born in Quincy on January 25, 1944, to the late Arthur Leo and Evelyn (Foster) MacDonald. He graduated from Quincy Trade High School and began his career as a sheet metal apprentice. In 1964, Joseph proudly joined Local 17, where he spent 35 years honing his craft and building lasting friendships before retiring in 1999. Never one to sit still, he later continued working for the MBTA, where he finished out his career.

Joseph lived life to the fullest and was happiest when he was outdoors. He loved fishing, boating, and spending time on the ocean, where he found both peace and joy. He also enjoyed a good game of pool, cribbage, or poker and was always ready for some friendly competition. Known for his discipline and determination, Joseph studied karate and proudly earned his black belt. He valued health and fitness, staying active and strong throughout his life.

Joe was someone you could always count on. You could tell him anything, and he would listen with patience and offer thoughtful advice. He loved sharing stories from his past and reminding those around him that the people in your life are what matters most. His quiet strength, kindness, and love for his family will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Above all, Joe loved his family. He shared 20 years of companionship with Phyllis Smith of Braintree, with whom he spent many meaningful years. He was the former husband of MarySue (DeFord) MacDonald of Weymouth, with whom he shared 39 years of marriage and three daughters. The two remained friends in the years that followed. Joe was the devoted father of Jacquelyn Watts and her husband, Michael, of Foothill Ranch, California; Suellen Durkin of Norwell; and the late Carrie Ann MacDonald, who passed away in 2023. He was the proud and loving grandfather of Zachary, Micaela, the late Cary, Liam, Thomas, Jake, Daniel, Brendan, Caleigh, Bailey, Caitlin, and Sean. He was the dear brother of Carole Draheim of Hanover and the late Donald Sawyer. Joe is also survived by his former son-in-law, Thomas Durkin of Hull, and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 8:30-9:30 AM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home SOUTH WEYMOUTH at 809 Main Street (Rte. 18 opp. So. Shore Hospital).

A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:30 AM on Monday, October 20, 2025, prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Francis Xavier Church, Weymouth at 10 AM.

Services will conclude with interment in Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Joseph's name to the charitable organization of one's choice.