News Summary
Alice Coig McDonald, a formidable advocate for education and women’s leadership, left behind a legacy of dedication and service when she passed away at the age of 85. A pioneer in education reform, Alice was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to the President’s Advisory Committee for Women. She served as Kentucky’s Superintendent of Public Instruction and played a significant role in community development. Alice is survived by her family and will be honored in a service celebrating her impactful contributions.
Nashville, Tennessee – Alice Coig McDonald, an esteemed advocate for education and women’s leadership, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, at the age of 85. Her death marks the end of a life devoted to education, public service, and family.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on September 26, 1940, Alice began her career as a teacher and guidance counselor in New Orleans before relocating to Louisville, Kentucky. There, her passion for education and community development flourished. Her commitment to improving neighborhoods led her to a significant role in the Mayor’s Office of Louisville in the 1970s, where she served as the Director of Neighborhood Development.
Alice’s dedication to women’s rights and education was recognized at the national level when President Jimmy Carter appointed her to the President’s Advisory Committee for Women in 1979. From 1983 to 1987, she held the important position of Superintendent of Public Instruction for the state of Kentucky, where she became a champion for education reform and worked tirelessly to create opportunities for future generations. Throughout her career, Alice was known for her efforts to advance education and expand opportunities for women in the workforce while fostering leadership in public life.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alice was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Michel McDonald, son-in-law Ward Pace, granddaughter Genevieve Pace, and step-grandson Max Pace. She was predeceased by her parents, Olas and Genevieve Coig, as well as her husbands, Glenn McDonald and Robert Hardesty.
In honor of her life and legacy, a service to celebrate Alice’s contributions and impact will be held at Lake Lawn Funeral Home on Monday, October 6, 2025. The family will host a visitation from 11 AM to 12 PM, followed by a mass at 12 PM. In lieu of flowers, they request that donations be made to Abe’s Garden in Nashville, Tennessee, an organization that reflects Alice’s dedication to community and wellness.
Alice Coig McDonald will be remembered not only for her substantial contributions to education and women’s leadership but also for her role as a loving family member. Her determination and spirit of service leave a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Alice McDonald Obituary
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Dignity Memorial: Alice McDonald Funeral Service
- Google Search: Women’s Leadership
- Dignity Memorial: Alice McDonald Kentucky
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