Local Legend. Passionate Advocate For Children. Family Man.
BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Samuel Bruce McDonald, one of the first top black administrators in the Palm Beach County School District, has died at age 98. His family issued this statement to BocaNewsNow.com which we publish exactly as it was received:
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Samuel Bruce McDonald, who died the morning of May 29, 2026, at the age of 98.
Samuel McDonald was born in Blitchton, Fla. on May 3, 1928, and lived a life defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others throughout the Palm Beach County community. A true Palm Beach County education pioneer and passionate advocate for children, he devoted decades to empowering young people and helping build stronger communities throughout Palm Beach County, especially in Boca Raton and West Palm Beach.
He was a highly respected teacher and principal in Palm Beach County public schools. But it was as one of the first Black top administrators, Mr. McDonald not only helped open the door for many local educators of color who followed but worked tirelessly to keep that door open to give others an opportunity in local public schools.
But his dedication to public service extended far beyond the public schools. Mr. McDonald was a respected community advocate and leader who served on numerous boards, such as the Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and United Way of Palm Beach County, lending his wisdom, vision, and leadership to improving the quality of life for countless individuals, families, and communities. He also served as Interim President of the Urban League of Palm Beach County, continuing his lifelong commitment to advancing opportunity, equity, and community development.
Among his many distinctions, McDonald was the last living charter member of both the Gamma Gamma undergraduate chapter at Talladega University and West Palm Beach alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., reflecting a lifetime dedicated to mentorship, scholarship, achievement, and service.
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A man of deep faith, those closest to him will remember his integrity, kindness, wisdom, humility, and steadfast devotion.
Our family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. We take comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through the generations of students he inspired, the organizations he strengthened, the communities he helped shape, and the many lives he touched.
He is survived by his children: Sylvia McDonald-Kaufman; Tammy A. McDonald; Bruce N. McDonald; and Delphine V. McDonald; as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Celebration of life arrangements will be announced at a later date.”
