Edward Hargrove Jr., a lifelong resident and community leader in Hattiesburg, has been selected as the Grand marshal for the 73rd Annual Hattiesburg Jaycees Christmas Parade.
Ed is an alumnus of Hattiesburg High School and a double graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi with a Masters in Economic Development. He currently serves as the Ecosystem Coordinator for Accelerate MS—the official office of Workforce Development in Mississippi.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ed is a committed community member. A recent graduate of the Leadership Pinebelt Class of 2023, he was nominated by his peers and selected by the steering committee as recipient of the Susan Walker Leadership Award. In his free time, Ed volunteers as a coach for the Dixie Boys Baseball and serves on the Midtown Merchants Board, as well as several other committees.
Recently nominated as this year's Grand marshal, Mr. Hargrove expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of an event that holds sentimental value from his childhood. Reflecting on the honor, he credits the Jaycee organization's dedicated volunteers, stating, "I am grateful to be the honorary Grand marshal, but I attribute this recognition to the dedicated volunteers of the Jaycee organization who make this annual event truly great."
Throughout its history, the Hattiesburg Jaycees Parade has celebrated community figures as Grand marshals, ranging from local business icons to government officials. Notable honorees include Hattiesburg’s first female Police Chief Peggy Sealy and the beloved Downtown cheerleader and entrepreneur Harry Goff.
Parade Chairman Hillaire Long expressed, "Edward Hargrove Jr. embodies the ideal blend of qualities we seek in our Grand marshals each year."
The Hattiesburg Jaycees Christmas Parade is set to commence at 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 30. The route begins at the 100 block of Hardy Street, progresses onto Front Street passing City Hall, turns onto Main Street, and concludes just past the Town Square Park for the City of Hattiesburg Tree lighting. Collaborating since 2016, these events aim to create a magical kickoff for the entire holiday season. The theme for this year's parade is “Santa's Workshop.”
