Leola Wanza McDonald

Leola McDonald was born to her beloved parents, Samuel Peter Berry ("Papa Sammy") and Lillie Wanza (Ferguson) Berry ("Mama Lillie").  She was a long=time educator, who taught at Union Academy, Simmons Elementary School, Glover School and Robinson Elementary, which spanned for over 38 years.

During her formative years, Leola attended elementary school in Mulberry, FL and graduated from Union Academy.  She later attended Bethune=Cookman College in Daytona Beach, FL, and graduated with a bachelor's degree and received State Board certification in Cosmetology.  Leola also attended and graduated from Florida A&M University, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education.  She was married to the late Ellie McDonald, Jr. and their union had one child, Chris Bernard McDonald.

She taught many children throughout the summers at Vacation Bible School at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Bealsville, FL.

She was a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta, Inc. and up until her death, she was the oldest living member of the sorority, in the United States.  Recently, her local sorority sisters created, named and presented a scholarship award in her honor, for deserving young ladies (HS Seniors) who have planned on continuing their education beyond high school.

Leola was also proud to represent her culture as the first African American inducted into the "Daughter's of the Confederacy" organization.  She was reportedly, the oldest living member of the organization in the United States, and she was namely presented with awards in her honor, on behalf of her great, great, great=grandfather, Ike Berry, who was trained as a Confederate soldier, to protect and defend his southern homeland against northern invaders.  During the "Reconstruction" Period, he became a "cattle driver", working for the late Rev. Samuel Knight (well founded organizer for the Knight Station area, just north of Plant City, FL) to bring cattle into Florida for fattening before distributing them westward across the country.

Leola was called to eternal rest with the Lord on April 17, 2024.  The sheer gravity of her impact and dynamic influence, upon the lives she touched, will undeniably be missed by all.  Leola adored, loved, and cherished her family; and she loved her community, friends, and associates until the end.

The family appreciates all kind gestures during this time of bereavement.

Please see below for service information.  Requesting that face masks be worn at all services.  Please direct any flowers, acknowledgements, or resolutions to Charlow Funeral Home.

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