“All rise,” said Decatur Police Chief Joedy Pennington as the group rose in Newton County Justice Court chambers. “The retirement party for the honorable Judge Mark McDonald is now in session.”
The group of family, friends, coworkers and others stood while McDonald, 68, was honored for his 15 years of service as a Justice Court Judge by fellow Judge Scott Round on Thursday afternoon.
“Everyone here knows that I always have something to say, especially those who listen to me every Sunday,” McDonald said. “But right now, I’m just speechless. Thank you for the kind words and support over the years.”
Since becoming the Place 2 judge in 2017, Round said it has been a pleasure to work with McDonald. During the ceremony, Round presented McDonald a new fishing pole.
“I think you know how to use this,” said Round, speaking of McDonald’s prowess as a local angler. “It has been a pleasure to serve with you. I’m happy to be a part the teamwork. All of the staff works well together. I don’t think there hasn’t been a more successful Justice Court the one in Newton County. And Mark has respected the office.”
McDonald is married to his wife of 45 years and is the father of two children and grandfather of eight grandchildren.
