Joseph McNeil, Greensboro Four civil rights icon and Air Force major general, dies at 83

Major General Joseph McNeil, a trailblazing Civil Rights activist and decorated military leader, died at age 83, North Carolina A&T State University confirmed Thursday. McNeil, a Wilmington native, helped ignite a national movement when he and three classmates staged a peaceful protest at a segregated lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Joseph McNeil civil rights activist Greensboro Four

On February 1, 1960, McNeil and fellow freshmen from the Agricultural and Technical College of North Carolina, now North Carolina A&T State University, sat at the Woolworth’s lunch counter and requested service. When denied, they refused to leave. Their bold action launched the sit-in movement, which spread rapidly across the South.

Three African American Civil Rights protesters and Woolworth’s Sit-In, Durham, NC, 10 February 1960, as part of a series of protests that led to the end of legal segregation. (From the N&O Negative Collection. State Archives of North Carolina, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

By February 5, hundreds of students joined the protests. By March’s end, sit-ins had reached 13 states. Woolworth’s desegregated its counters in July 1960, marking a pivotal shift in public policy.

“Joseph A. McNeil’s legacy is a testament to the power of courage and conviction,” said his son, Joseph McNeil Jr. “His impact on the civil rights movement and his service to the nation will never be forgotten.”

Other accomplishments

McNeil later served in Vietnam and rose to the rank of major general in the Air Force Reserve Command. He also worked with the Federal Aviation Administration, continuing his commitment to public service.

North Carolina A&T honored McNeil in February during the 65th anniversary of the sit-in. Despite health challenges, he attended the event and received a standing ovation.

Honoring Joseph McNeil’s legacy

The McNeil family plans a tribute to honor his life and legacy. They encourage donations to organizations supporting civil rights and social justice.

Today, the original Woolworth’s site houses the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. A portion of the counter also resides at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

McNeil’s peaceful protest, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and the Freedom Rides, helped shape the Civil Rights Movement and continues to inspire generations.

His story remains a cornerstone of American history, reminding us that young voices can spark lasting change.