October 7, 1931 – July 14, 2026
Almira Gunter (née DaCosta), a beloved matriarch, devoted mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Germantown, Maryland, on July 14, 2026. She was 94 years old.
A Life Journey Across Oceans
Born on October 7, 1931, in the lush hills of Richmond, Saint Mary, Jamaica, Almira was raised with strong family values and a resilient spirit. As a young woman, her life’s journey took her to London, England, where she spent several vibrant years. She eventually crossed the Atlantic again to settle in Washington, D.C., the city she proudly called home for decades before spending her final years surrounded by family in Maryland.
Professional Service & Legacy
Almira built a distinguished career defined by professionalism, dedication, and grace. She proudly served for many years working with an African embassy in Washington, D.C., fostering diplomatic and community ties, before continuing her career at George Washington University, from which she eventually retired.
Above all her professional accomplishments, Almira’s greatest devotion was to her family. Her warmth, wisdom, and nurturing spirit created a sanctuary for generations of children, grandchildren, and relatives.
Family & Predecessors
Almira was preceded in death by:
Parents: John DaCosta and Edith Rhoden
Husband: Lorenzo Gunter
Son: Alec Wheatle
Brothers: Eric Rhoden, Tubal "Kaydee" DaCosta, Trevor "Spreeboy" DaCosta, Aldred "Dandy" DaCosta, and Frederick "Sunny" DaCosta
Sisters: Nellie DaCosta, Meldora DaCosta, Valerie "Mack" Walker, Clover "Lou" Leys, and Cynthia Hall
Surviving Kin & Cherished Memory
Her legacy of love lives on through those who survive her:
Brothers: Wesley "Dickie" DaCosta and Osmond "Ozzie" DaCosta
Children: Margaret Darrell, Diana Chin Loy, Joan Schooler, Christine Gunter, and Peter Gunter
Grandchildren: 17 beloved grandchildren
Great-Grandchildren: 21 cherished great-grandchildren
Extended Family: A multitude of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends across the globe.
Almira lived a full, rich life marked by courage, warmth, and quiet strength. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all whose lives she touched.
"May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who loved her."
