Scenes from Major Jewell McDonald Day

Major Jewel McDonald Day was filled with a crowd, at least 200, plenty of fried fish, fried chicken, hotdogs, baked beans, corn and deserts of various kind. This annual Mt. Olive Fishfry was held on D. Sims Road. Unfortunately,  the annual rain showed up and chased some of the crowd away  but more people came.

Mr. McDonald entertained from his car not caring to be in the 94 F weather. He was elated to see the crowd. The City of Louisville had a banner posted there and in various places throughout the city, at city hall, and on the street he lives on. The banners  stated that September 5, 2026 was proclaimed Major Jewel McDonald Day. It stated, "Thank you for inspiring generations." There was talk among the crowd to rename the street that Mr.  McDonald lives on to Major Jewel McDonald Drive to historical honor him and his longevity of 110 years which he stated, "It's God's blessings that I have lived this long." He is a very humble person.

The WLSM Radio Station, The Refuge 107.1 honored Mr. McDonald with two one hour segments dedicated to Mr. McDonald with his favorite songs leading with Blessed Assurance.  The program is archived and can be listened to at: therefugeonline.com. under THE MAJOR JEWEL MCDONALD DAY,  RADIO GOSPEL HOUR.

The family of Mr. McDonald expressed gratitude to Mayor Will Hill, the City of Louisville, this writer and others who helped to make it a great day. Attending the Mt. Olive Fishfry were his children and wife Brenda: daughters, Barbara Aaron, Jackie McDonald,  sons, Jamison Eichelberger and Bryant McDonald and many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Many wore t'shirts with print The Oldest Man in USA of America and a picture of Mayor Hill reading the proclamation to him and his wife. The group photo is courtesy of his oldest grandson who lives in Jonesboro, GA, Eric Wiley.