Born Mary Frances Bowen in Tuam, County Galway, she joined the Irish Countrywomen's Association while living in Croom, County Limerick [2] c.1947.

She married Eugene McDonald in 1950, and was therefore required by law to leave her job at a bank.

[3] For over sixty-four years McDonald was a member of the ICA Clones Guild, which she helped to found.

She became ICA National President in 1982 and played a major role in its acceptance as part of the women's movement in late-20th century Ireland.

"[5] In 2012, she stated her belief that the most life-changing invention for women is the washing machine.