02/20/2026
Michael McDonald Weekes
Date of Birth: 12-10-1938
Date of Death: 02-07-2026
Place of Residence: Stone Mountain, Georgia
Age: 87
Today we gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable man — Michael Weekes Sr., lovingly known as Mack.
Michael was born on Saturday, December 10, 1938, in the sweet and vibrant country of Trinidad & Tobago. He was the proud son of Adella Weekes. From the very beginning, Trinidad lived inside him — in his voice, in his spirit, and especially in his rhythm.
In 1966, what was meant to be just a visit to New York City with his band, the Steel Band Boys, turned into a life-changing journey. That visit became the start of a new chapter. With courage and determination, he built a life in America, carrying his culture and music with him wherever he went.
That same year, he married Claudette Weekes. Their marriage marked the beginning of a partnership grounded in commitment and resilience. 1966 was not just the year he came to New York — it was the year he laid the foundation for his future and his family.
Michael dedicated his working career to Alpha Wire, where he worked faithfully until retiring in 1994. He was a hardworking man — steady, dependable, and committed to providing for those he loved. After retirement, he moved to Atlanta in 1995, where he embraced a slower and more peaceful life. Although he never made it back home to Trinidad for Carnival, Carnival never left him.
Music was not just something he enjoyed — it was part of who he was. He also enjoyed hanging out at Borokett Mas Camp with Ashaki and the late Ormand Sharp, along with PD and Barbie Martin.
On the music scene and to friends — and to some family — he was known as Mack. That name carried history, personality, and presence. But whether he was Grandpa or Mack, he wore both titles with pride.
You could catch him in his room watching classic Soca Monarch performances, reliving the golden days of steel pan. No matter what else was going on, he would always find a way to squeeze that in — right alongside his sports. And if there was a soccer match on, you knew exactly where he would be. His love for soccer was just as strong as his love for music.
He carried Trinidad in his heart. Every note of steel pan, every soca rhythm, kept him connected to home. Even though he did not return for Carnival, the spirit of Carnival stayed with him.
Michael leaves behind a powerful and beautiful legacy.
He is survived by his two children, Michelle Baptiste and Michael Weekes Jr., who were the apple of his eye. Mack committed his entire life to his family, making him the true definition of love and a champion of fatherhood. He gave his children the greatest gift of all — his physical presence. In doing so, he encouraged them to be fruitful and productive in their lives and to walk in prosperity.
He leaves behind seven grandchildren: Kareem Weekes, Jamal Weekes, Markeith Bailey, Shanelle Lewis, Jahlil Weekes, Jah’Naysia Tackett, and Wesley Weekes.
He also leaves eleven great-grandchildren: Daniel Weekes, Olivia Shepherd, Jordynn Weekes, Kamren Weekes, Paisley Lewis, Jahlani Lewis, Karmen Weekes, Jalaiyah Lewis, Kairo Bouie, Jenesis Lewis, and Nova Bailey.
Michael is also survived by his nephews, Chuck Christian and Earl Weekes, and his cousin, Andrew.
These names are more than a list. They are his legacy. They are the generations that will carry his blood, his lessons, his rhythm, and his strength forward.
We don’t just say goodbye.
We send you off to the open and waiting arms of your wife, Claudette Weekes; your granddaughter, Journei Lewis; your sister, Agnes Weekes; your sister, Irma Christian; your sister, Cynthia Weekes; your mother, Adella Weekes; and your grandson, Kevin Grimes.
Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing you are reunited with those who have gone before you. We can imagine the joy of that reunion — the smiles, the embrace, and perhaps even the sound of steel pan welcoming you home.
Rest peacefully, Grandpa.
Rest peacefully, Mack.
Rest peacefully, Dad.
Rest peacefully, Champion of Dad’s.
The music continues, and your legacy lives on in all of us
