Major Jewel McDonald

By Elmetra Eichelberger Patterson

JA Guest Writer

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 huge 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. 

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 dedicated 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 a humble loving man. During my last visit with him on Friday, October 2, 2026, he called me his photo girl and said he loved me. This writer loved him dearly. He will be missed by family, friends, and community.