Earlier in the day, Jaynae Davis, 9, a fourth-grade student at Neshoba Central Elementary School, was crowned Little
Miss Black Neshoba County 2026.
The daughter of Johnathan and Tori Davis, Jaynae also received the Best Dress Award.
One of the most memorable moments of the afternoon came when judges announced an unprecedented tie for First Runner-Up in the Little Miss division, highlighting the strength of this year’s competition.
Karlie Willis, 10, a fifth-grade student at Neshoba Central Elementary School, and Rae Jones, 7, a second-grade student at Neshoba Central Elementary School, shared the honor.
Willis also received the Most Photogenic Award, while Jones earned the Best Hair Award.
Nayeli Harrington, 7, a second-grade student at Neshoba Central Elementary School, was named Second Runner-Up and received the Assistant Director’s Award.
Additional Little Miss honors were awarded to Serenity Perkins, 9, a fifth-grade student at Neshoba Central Elementary School, who received both the Prettiest Smile Award and the Director’s Award.
“The success of this year’s pageant reflects the strength and talent of the young women in our community,” said Erica Moore, Pageant Director. “Every contestant brought confidence, poise, and determination to the stage, making the competition one of our strongest yet.”
“This program is about more than crowns and titles,” she added. “It is about developing confidence, leadership, and pride in who they are, and this year’s contestants embodied those qualities at every level.”
Moore also expressed appreciation to the judges, volunteers, sponsors, families, community supporters, local royalty, and elected officials whose contributions helped make the event a success.
The newly crowned queens will spend the coming year serving as ambassadors for the Miss Black Neshoba County Pageant organization, representing the program at community events, celebrations, and service activities throughout the region.