Travis McDonald, 64, of Magnolia, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2016, at home in the comforting arms of his loving wife and family. Travis was born in Rotan, Texas, on Easter Sunday, April 13, 1952. The significance of the day followed Travis throughout his life as he was a devout believer in the Christian faith and the value of treating his fellow man with kindness and deep respect according to the teachings and procedures of his Church. He found great pleasure in participating in the ministry of baptism, greeting fellow church members, being a part of the Men's Prayer Breakfast Group, and offering his time and talents to friends in need through prayer and words filled with hope and comfort.

Travis was the Assistant Director at Redd School where he filled many roles, but was most instrumental in offering support to all employees and building an animal program that taught the importance of giving back to the community. By sharing his love for critters, large and small, he exemplified his belief that students could learn the joy of responsibility and kindness, finding added value and self esteem in their lives. He partnered with his wife, Nancy, to introduce the academic value of bringing animals into the classroom. The tiny seed they planted grew into the realization that animals were invaluable in many support systems beyond the classroom. Travis and Nancy volunteered at the Houston Live Stock Show to make it possible for Riders with Disabilities to participate in rodeo events and fulfill their dreams on the backs of their beloved horses. The power of animals to help children succeed was published in books and magazines alike. Travis mentored family and community through warmth and unselfish deeds. His gentle strength and spirit shed light and direction to those who shared his life.

Travis was preceded in death by his parents, Talmage and LaFaye Latham McDonald, and beloved uncle, Benjamin Lloyd McDonald. He is survived by his wife, Nancy McDonald; son, Christopher Reinhart; daughter, Debbie Rodriguez and husband, Jorge, and their children, Leo and Adriana. Travis is further survived by his sister, Denna Baskin and husband, Kennis; nephew, Brannon Baskin and wife Shelley, and their sons Bradan and Brennan; niece, Brandee Rochard and husband Scott, and their son Mason; and T. Singh, whose support at every juncture was greatly appreciated.

His family is honored to welcome friends in celebrating his life at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 1, at Champions Forest Baptist Church, 15555 Stuebner-Airline Road, Houston, TX 77069, which was his neighbor and a source of strength during his tenure at Redd School.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Travis' name may be directed to The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), 26 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10004.