Today, the island paid final respects to the honorable Mayor Paul M. McDonald – Guam’s longest-serving mayor and a devoted son of Agana Heights. Nevaeh Anderson shares more from his state funeral at the Guam Congress Building that brought together family, friends, and leaders to remember a life built on service, faith, and love for his community.

Surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues, the state funeral was a solemn yet heartfelt tribute to a man who dedicated 32 years of his life to serving Agana Heights and the island. Pale' Ron Pangan said, “As we gather in prayer, unite us in gratitude for his legacy and grant us the grace to continue building a society founded on justice, respect, and compassion.”

From his time as president of the Agana Heights Elementary School PTO and a baseball coach, to his eight terms as mayor, McDonald is remembered as a leader who never lost sight of the values of family and community. 

Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane presented a legislative resolution honoring him, announcing, “Throughout his life he exemplified the values of faith and family, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to serving the residents of his beloved village.”

And that legacy extended beyond the village, from leading the Association of Pacific Island Local Governments to championing access to off-island healthcare in the Philippines for Guam residents. “Paul was never in it for Agana Heights alone," noted former governor Carl Gutierrez, "and that is why he earned the respect of his colleagues.”

Even while facing over two decades of medical challenges and dialysis, McDonald never wavered in his commitment. Gutierrez recalled McDonald’s passionate effort to claim Triangle Park as part of Agana Heights, as well as his push back against lawmakers intent to rename the village.

“What endeared me most to him, if I’m being honest, are the fights he picked and won for the sake of his people," Gutierrez said. Gutierrez also remembered his friend’s strength and resilience, every present the last time they met – just three days before McDonald’s passing, commenting, “He was upbeat, laughing, smiling, and carrying that joy that lit up every room he entered.”

Behind that strength, Gutierrez said, was the constant love of his family — who stood with him through every triumph and hardship. “Rest now, Mayor McDonald. As you say, buddy, your fight is over, but your spirit lives on in the laughter you shared, in the battles you won, and in the hearts of your family and those whose lives you touched. Adios, amigo," he said.

With wreaths laid and tributes shared, the island bid farewell to a leader remembered not just for his titles, but for the compassion, resilience, and love he carried for his family and community.