John "Dessy" Scott McDonald

John “Dessy” Scott McDonald of Hingham passed away at his home on June 9, 2022 at the age of 57 after fearlessly battling head and neck cancer. 

Born in Dorchester, his late mother and father, James and Mary Ann McDonald, came to live in Hingham’s west corner on Hull Street in 1974. During these formative years, Johnny became an instrumental part of the community especially to his friends, the “crew”, who refer to him as Dessy. Years later, Johnny met his wife at the Feast of the Madonna in Hingham. Much to their surprise, they grew up on the same street. 

Married in 1991, Johnny and his wife decided to remain in Hingham to raise their four children.  A genuine and compassionate person, Johnny was devoted to his family, friends, and community. Johnny was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He cherished the time that he spent with his wife, children, niece, nephews, and friends. 

Son-in-law to Mary and James Rosano of Cohasset and Palermiti, Johnny fully embraced the local Italian culture. This led him to become an important member of the Italian-American community, which ultimately led him to his presidency of the Sons of Italy from 2004-2006. A man of many hobbies, Johnny loved to use his skills to help his friends and was always there for those in need. Specifically, he enjoyed woodworking, wine and sausage making, as well as his most recent passion- gardening. Everyone who knew Johnny deeply cherished their relationship with him.

Over the course of his life, Johnny pursued many professions, always leaving an impact wherever he was. Starting his career at Boston Edison, Johnny worked as a fossil fuel mechanic welder and union steward of local 3690. He then worked as a lineman for Hingham Light before transitioning to a long and enjoyable career at Iaria Brother Inc. Eventually, Johnny found his calling and home working for the Sewage Department of Hingham. No matter what the job was, Johnny always worked with heart and deeply valued the relationships he had with those around him. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Paulina, and their children; John, Hope, Chris, and Rose. Johnny was also a dear brother of Kathleen and the late Bill Costa (Hingham), Jimmy McDonald (Hingham), Gina and Ed Zalewski (Cohasset), as well as James and Linda Rosano (Hanover). He is survived also by his niece Amelia and nephews, Michael and Benjamin. And of course, pop-pop to his beloved granddogs Nessie and Freddie. 

Family and friends are invited to join a celebration of life mass Saturday, June 18th, 2022 at 9AM held at St. Anthony’s Padua Catholic Church, Cohasset. All are welcome to enjoy refreshments and share memories following the mass at 19 Carleton Rd, Hingham. Johnny will be laid to rest at Glastonbury Columbarium in Hingham, with a date to be announced. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the TRACES program at Hingham High School. Also, if you’d like, please visit his online guest book set up by his family at https://forms.gle/PYnM1uR1YUgPDNFZ8 or visit the funeral home website at www.mcnamara-sparrell.com.