An Orangeburg family and the NYPD are mourning the unexpected loss of officer Ryan Thomas McDonald.

McDonald died July 17. He was 28 years old.

The Orangeburg resident joined the New York City Police Department on Jan. 29, 2025, and was assigned to the 34th Precinct.

According to his obituary, McDonald loved serving as a police officer and found a strong sense of purpose in protecting New York City residents.

Born in Suffern and raised in Rockland County, McDonald graduated from Pearl River High School in 2015 before earning a bachelor's degree in sociology from Fordham University.

He later received his law degree from Temple University Beasley School of Law in 2023.

In addition, he was active with the Rockland County GAA, where he developed a passion for the sport of hurling, and later joined the NYPD Irish Football Team.

Family members say he will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, sense of humor and ability to make others feel welcome.

McDonald is survived by his parents, Edward McDonald and Kara O'Keeffe McDonald, his brother Kyle, and numerous extended family members and friends.

Officer McDonald will be laid to rest Thursday following a funeral Mass at St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Blauvelt.

His family has asked that memorial donations be made in his honor to the NYPD Widows and Orphans Fund.