Maeve Grace McDonald, 7-Month-Old Tennessean, Passes Away After Cancer Battle

The young girl's life was a symbol of love, hope, and courage, inspiring kindness and deepening faith in her community.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:05pm

An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a baby's hand reaching up, captured in a hazy, dreamlike wash of warm, glowing colors, conveying a sense of tenderness and fragility.Maeve Grace McDonald's brief life left an indelible mark, inspiring hope and kindness in her community.Columbia Today

Maeve Grace McDonald, a 7-month-old girl from Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis after a 3-month battle with cancer. Despite her young age, Maeve's life and legacy have left a lasting impact on all who followed her story and were inspired by her strength and determination.

Why it matters

Maeve's story highlights the heartbreaking reality that children can face life-threatening illnesses, and the importance of supporting research and care for pediatric patients through organizations like St. Jude. Her life also exemplified the power of community, faith, and love to uplift and inspire even in the face of great adversity.

The details

Maeve was born on August 24, 2025 and passed away at St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee on March 26, 2026 at just 7 months old. During her short life, she bravely fought cancer for 3 months, showing immense determination and courage. Maeve's family and community rallied around her, describing her as having a bright smile, fierce spirit, and profound impact on all who knew her.

  • Maeve Grace McDonald was born on August 24, 2025 in Columbia, Tennessee.
  • Maeve passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
  • Maeve's funeral services will be held on Palm Sunday, March 29th at 4PM at the First Pentecostal Church in Lexington, Tennessee.

The players

Maeve Grace McDonald

A 7-month-old girl from Columbia, Tennessee who passed away after a 3-month battle with cancer.

R.E. and Hanna McDonald

Maeve's parents.

Everette McDonald

Maeve's brother.

Jim and Sheila Henderson

Maeve's grandparents.

Nancy McDonald

Maeve's grandmother.

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What’s next

The family has requested donations in Maeve's memory be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Miracle Maeve Ministry Fund to support pediatric cancer research and care.

The takeaway

Maeve's story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment, while also highlighting the vital role that organizations like St. Jude play in supporting families and advancing research to find cures for childhood cancers.