Harry J. McDonald

Harry J. “Slick” McDonald, age 78, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2025, at his home near Sardis, MS.

The family will be receiving friends Monday morning from 9:00 - 11:00 A.M. at Wells Funeral Home. A private family graveside service will be held at Forrest Memorial Park.

Born on December 8, 1946, in Memphis, TN, Harry was the son of the late Harry J. and Rosenell McDonald.

A skilled welder by trade, Slick dedicated a portion of his career to Delta Ford Company, where he honed his craft. He later transitioned to building armored bank vehicles and engaged in various welding jobs throughout his life. Slick’s passion for his trade was paralleled by his commitment to his family, as he often worked alongside his late wife, Rena, at Davenport Towing & Recovery.

Traveling was one of Slick’s greatest joys, and he relished opportunities to visit casinos and play poker. His adventurous spirit was evident in his love for building and riding dune buggies at the lake bottoms, as well as spending leisurely days on the pontoon at Sardis Lake.

Combining his two passions, Slick fabricated his own barbecue cookers, which he used when participating in the Memphis in May World Barbecuing Contest, proudly earning the title of World Barbecuing Cooking Champion. Slick, along with his late wife Rena, became known for their memorable parties at their home in Sardis, where everyone was welcomed with warmth and cheer!

He is survived by two daughters, Kelly Lott and Vicki Tuft, and a son, Michael Tuft. Harry was also a proud grandfather to four grandchildren—Kyle Lewellen, Kasey Conner, Savannah Daniels, and Alex McCairns—and cherished his role as a great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren.