Gone but will never be forgotten by Louisvillians

Our beloved 110 year old Mr. Major Jewel McDonald took wings and flew away Sunday night, October 4, 2026 with his wife Brenda by his bedside. 

This photo of him in the car is his last public appearance.  He was at the annual Mt. Olive Fish Fry  on September 5, 2026.  He played a hugh role in organizing and catching the fish for the event for many years. He became a celebrity in Louisville when it was announced on July 26, 2026 that he was the oldest living man in the USA.  The photo with him wearing hat was taken 6 years ago at the Annual Fish Fry in the Mt. Olive Community. The other photo is of him sharing a few loving moments with his wife Brenda.  The other one is during the time when he realized he was a celebrity. 

Mayor Will Hill and the city of Louisville, proclaimed September 5. 2026 as Major Jewel McDonald  Day in a proclamation presented to him at his home. It was a great day of celebrating his longevity as the oldest man in the USA. Banners were placed throughout the city and at the Fish Fry.  On that day WLSM, the Refuge Radio 107.1 dedicate   in two one hour segments of gospel songs that Mr. McDonald loved. Over 200 people attended the event.

State Representative Carl Mickens presented a proclamation from the State of Mississippi honoring Mr. McDonald. 

This writer has written many articles about McDonald since he turned 100 years old. He was introduced to WCBI for an interview which can be found on the internet. Other TV stations were waiting for interviews but  he didn't feel like it. It has been an honor to know and to write about such an humble loving man. During my last visit with him on Friday,  October 2, 2026, he called me him photo girl and said he loved me. This writer loved him dearly. He will be missed by family, friends and community.