A Celebration of Dr. James McDaniel’s 101st Birthday

by Jewelean Magee

The Johnetta R. Cole Am Vets Post 24, the African American Veterans Arts, and Culture Corporation and Senior Wishes came together with Senior Wishes and in partnership with Quilts for Valor to present Dr. James Mc Daniel with a hero’s box and other gifts for his 101st birthday celebration on August 7, 2026, at The Elderwood Skilled Nursing Facility, located at 5271 Main Street in Williamsville NY where he currently resides.

This celebration was well attended by former employees and colleagues of Geneva B. Scruggs Clinic where he worked. Dr. McDaniel commonly known as “Dr. Mac,” such as Dr. Carol Jackson-Gibson of the National Medical Association. “I came to see Dr. McDaniel being recognized for everything that he has done in the community and at Geneva B. Scruggs. I wanted to show love to him, and he was a good mentor,” said Dr. Jackson Gibson.

Former executive director of Geneva B. Scruggs, Ms. Lillian Davis Wilson also came out to see “Dr. Mac” she said, “He was a pillar of strength and knowledge at the clinic.” Ms. Stephanie Tillman came on behalf of family member Ms. Daphne Perry. Ms. Tillman also worked with Dr. Mac and said, “He is just a wonderful person.”

Members of Dr. Mac’s fraternity, The Omega Psi Phi- Buffalo Chapter. Brothers Larry Donaldson, Woody Brandy and Andrew Huff came to show love and spoke about how Dr. McDaniel was a member of the fraternity since May 8, 1950, while attending Howard University (HBCU) for both undergraduate and medical school. The men gathered around him and sung their theme song of the fraternity. Mr. Donaldson further stated that “Dr. Mac” delivered his twins over 35 years ago.

Ms. Maureen Gorski and Wendy Backman both of Senior Wishes presented Dr. McDaniel with a hero’s box that contained a navy hat, patriotic calendar, mug, a book entitled “Chicken Soup for the Veteran’s Soul” and other items to show appreciation for his service in the Navy during WW11. He also received a hero medal placed around his neck. “Because Dr. McDaniel is 101 years old, let it be known that he is now a member of the centurion club.” Said Ms. Gorski.

Rounding out all the gifts that Dr. McDaniel received, an inscribed brick stating that “James McDaniel, Navy Veteran, WW11 Guam will be laid at the Naval & Serviceman’s Park.” He will see where his brick will be laid at the African American Veteran Monument after the unveiling of a trailblazing sign in his honor at ECMC on August 17, 2026.

A big heartfelt “Thank You” with lot of love goes to Ms. Rolanda L. Ward who met with Senior Wishes, The Johnetta R. Cole Post 24, African American Veteran Arts and Culture Corporation, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, and colleagues from Geneva B. Scruggs for making this celebration a success. She remembers that Dr. McDaniel delivered her cousins at the former Deaconess Hospital.