At a Glance
- Jimmy McMahan, known online as “Whyte Folkz,” died in a motorcycle accident on Jan. 19.
- The incident occurred near the intersection of Saratoga Road and Millington Road in Millington, Tennessee.
- His son, Jimmy McMahan Jr., released a heartfelt tribute to the internet personality.
Why it matters: The loss of a beloved local content creator shocked the Memphis community and highlighted the dangers of motorcycle riding.
The Memphis-area internet personality Jimmy McMahan, better known online as “Whyte Folkz,” was killed in a motorcycle crash on January 19. The accident, which took place near the intersection of Saratoga Road and Millington Road in Millington, left the community mourning a comedian who had built a following of over 120,000 on Instagram. His son, Jimmy McMahan Jr., broke his silence with a moving tribute.
The Fatal Accident
McMahan was riding a motorcycle near the intersection of Saratoga Road and Millington Road when he lost control and struck two parked vehicles. Local outlets ABC24 Memphis, FOX 13 Memphis, and Action News 5 reported that he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Legacy of Laughter
McMahan was a well-known internet personality in the Memphis area. He maintained a following of over 120,000 on Instagram, where he was known for his comedic videos. He was celebrated for his quick wit and playful spirit, qualities that lifted people’s moods even on the hardest days.
Family Tribute
“Today we remember a father who filled every room with laughter and love, my dad Jimmy McMahan,” said Jimmy McMahan Jr. in an exclusive statement to News Of Los Angeles. He added that his father “was the kind of man who spoke his mind without hesitation, yet always led with a caring and kind heart.” The son continued, “His jokes, quick comebacks, and playful spirit had a way of lifting people’s moods, even on the hardest days. Making others laugh wasn’t just something he did – it was who he was.”
Brother Joseph Johnson described the late creator in the GoFundMe fundraiser’s description: “Whitefolkz was more than a brother – he was a son, a friend, and a light to everyone who knew him. His laughter, loyalty, and love will never be forgotten. He lived with passion and left a lasting impression on all our lives.”
Daughter-in-law Tonya posted on Facebook: “To know my brother-in-law was an honor! Never a dull moment, my stomach and ribs would hurt for days after spending a day with him! His heart was so big no matter who you were.”
Community Response
McMahan’s family opened a GoFundMe on the day he died to raise money for his funeral and memorial expenses. The fundraiser had already amassed over $1,000 in three days. The description highlighted the impact of his laughter and loyalty on those who knew him.
Final Moments
McMahan seemingly last updated his social media accounts on Jan. 18, the day before the fatal accident, sharing a video to Instagram of him seemingly in the hospital.
Key Takeaways
- Jimmy McMahan died in a motorcycle crash on Jan. 19.
- The accident occurred near Saratoga Road and Millington Road in Millington, Tennessee.
- He had built a following of over 120,000 on Instagram and was known for his comedic videos.
- His son released a heartfelt tribute, and the family launched a GoFundMe that raised over $1,000 in three days.
- The incident highlights the risks of motorcycle riding and the profound impact of community loss.
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Sources: ABC24 Memphis, FOX 13 Memphis, Action News 5, and statements from McMahan’s family and friends.
