Last updated on: November 21, 2024

Donna Jo McGraw Madsen was the older sister of Dr. Phil McGraw, the acclaimed television personality and psychologist. She took loving care of her family and served others. Her life is a story of kindness and devotion. Although she spent most of her time away from the limelight, the people who knew her felt her impact deeply.

Early Life and Family

Donna Jo McGraw was born on February 28, 1947. Donna Jo grew up in North Texas with parents Joseph J. McGraw and Geraldine “Jerry” McGraw. Her father worked in the oil fields before going on to become a psychologist. Her mother was the heart of their home, raising Donna and her siblings with strong values.

Donna had three siblings, including two sisters and a brother named Dr. Phil McGraw, as well as Deana McGraw Prater and Brenda Watters. Dr. Phil often discussed how being raised with sisters helped him better understand relationships and family when he grew up. Donna Jo was an affectionate person who loved her family dearly.

Career and Commitment

Donna Jo decided on a career in nursing. She became an LVN, now more commonly called an LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse. Thus, people are helped by her work.

Donna had a heart to care for others even outside of her professional career. She was always known as empathetic, never thinking of herself first.

Her love for nursing reflected her kind nature. She often found ways to brighten the lives of her patients and those around her.

Marriage and Family Life

Donna Jo married William Scott Madsen Sr. They were married for 46 years and filled their marriage with love and laughter. Children and grandchildren, school and home, were always at the forefront of this family’s endeavors.

Tragically, Donna’s two sons, Anthony and William Jr., predeceased her. Still, she remained a steady source of strength to her family. She provided for her loved ones with unyielding care and affection.

Death and Legacy

Donna Jo McGraw Madsen died on February 27, 2022. A day before she became 75 years old. Her life was observed on March 4, 2022, at the First United Methodist Church in Lewisville, Texas.

Her family remembered her as a person of love, humor, and dedication. She left behind cherished memories and a legacy of kindness.

The McGraw Family

Dr. Phil often speaks about family, and his bond with Donna Jo seemed to epitomize that. The closeness of the household in which they were raised shaped their values and outlook on life.

The father, Joseph J. McGraw, was an oil field worker who turned to be a psychologist. He inspired Dr. Phil McGraw into this profession. The mother, Geraldine, played a significant role in raising the family on firm principles.

Donna Jo’s siblings also left their marks in different ways. Deana McGraw Prater was a nurse like Donna and appeared on Dr. Phil McGraw‘s show to share her story of weight loss and overcoming health struggles. She died in 2018, but leaves behind her legendary legacy of resilience. Brenda Watters is the youngest sibling and part of the loving McGraw family.

READ ALSO: Phil McGraw Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More

A Life of Love and Purpose

Donna Jo McGraw Madsen lived life surrounded by family, kindness, and service. She loved and served others-that as a nurse, and perhaps even more so throughout her own life. Her story reminds us that in very small ways indeed, care can leave a lasting impression.

She may not have been in the limelight, but Donna Jo’s legacy is etched in the hearts of those who knew her and loved her; she was a testament to love and compassion.

Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com