From 1993 to 2025, former Agana Heights mayor Paul M. McDonald - also the longest-serving president of the Mayors Council of Guam - devoted his life to service and community.  Today, island leaders remember the political giant not only for his steadfast leadership, but also for the warmth and compassion that defined his legacy.

The island community is in mourning following McDonald's passing. A devoted public servant, husband and father, his life’s work was dedicated to his village and to Guam. McDonald, who became the longest-serving president of the Mayors Council, leaves behind not only a legacy of leadership but also countless lives touched by his service. 

For Sinajana mayor robert hofmann, who served alongside him since 2005, McDonald was more than a colleague or neighbor — he was a friend. “When he spoke, people listened. Political leaders listened from across the aisle. He was never just about one party; he was about so many things. So, he really always wanted the best for Agana Heights–he always wanted the best for the people of Guam. Even as the Mayor’s council president, whom I served as his VP numerous times, he had his eye on every village and making sure he got the best and the most," he shared.

Current Agana Heights mayor Richard Arroyo also reflecting on his predecessor, not only as a leader but as someone who had been part of his life since childhood. “He had a vision of where he wanted the village to go, and it is because of him why we are where we are today. And me, coming in as his successor, an individual who he took shrimping as a kid, has now taken over," he said. "He has set the foundation for the village of Agana Heights, and we’re just nothing but grateful.”

Both leaders sharing that when they look around Agana Heights, McDonald’s presence is everywhere — in the people, the projects, and the spirit of service he inspired. As they honor his memory, they stand ready to support his family and the many who loved him deeply.

Hofmann added, “He really gave his all to the island. So, to his family, thank you for sharing him with us.”

An outpouring of condolences also came from leaders across the island. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero stated, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Agana Heights mayor Paul M. McDonald, who faithfully served the people of Guam for 32 years. Mayor McDonald gave his heart to the people of Agana Heights and built a legacy of service that will never be forgotten.”

And Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio added, “He worked with everyone, regardless of politics, because his heart was with the people he served.”

The Mayors Council of Guam remembered him throughout his tenure to have “worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others, strengthen our neighborhoods, and ensure that every voice was heard. His leadership as the president of the mayors’ council of guam for eleven years was marked by integrity and a deep love for this island that he proudly called home.” 

Congressman James Moylan also expressed his condolences, saying, in part: “Mayor McDonald was a true public servant — a man of integrity, compassion, and deep commitment to the people he served. His leadership left a lasting imprint on his village and on our island.”

The Republican majority in the Guam Legislature also issued several statements on behalf of the former mayor’s passing. 

State memorial services in honor of the late mayor will be held on September 3rd at 8am at the Guam Congress Building.