Mr. James E. "Ed" McDonald, age 80 of Florence passed away Saturday, June 15, 2013 at his residence. Visitation will be from 1-2pm Tuesday June 18, 2013 at Elkins Funeral Home of Florence. Memorial Services will be at 2pm in the chapel with Brother Chris Underwood officiating.

James was born March 7, 1933 in Tennessee. He retired from the Florence Times Daily in 1998.

He was preceded in death by his parents Buford and Lena McDonald, sisters Betty Holland and Linda Giles; brother Charles McDonald; daughter Keely Watkins and grandson Cody Watkins.

Mr. McDonald is survived by his wife of 61 years, Peggy McDonald. Children Larry (Melissa) McDonald, of Woodstock, GA; Kathy Lanum of Woodstock, GA; Cheryl (Danny) Bryant of Crystal Springs, MS and Lori (Tim) Bennett of Braselton, GA; eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.