Ellen Armeta McDonald was gifted to the late John R. and Beatrice McDonald on August 26, 1957 in Houston, TX. She was the youngest sibling of five children: John (deceased), Sandra, Joseph (deceased) and Mary.
The McDonald home was a family-oriented environment with Christian values. Traditional family values were the cornerstone of the McDonald household and Ellen and her siblings were devoted to upholding the same traditions and values with the next generation. Ellen received Christ at an early age and was a member of Wayman Chapel A.M.E. Church and later joined Brown Chapel A. M.E. Church with her mother. She was actively involved in the Youth Choir, Young People’s Department (Y.P.D.), A.C.E. League, and Sunday School.
Ellen was a student in the Houston Independent School District where she became a proud alumnus of S. P. Waltrip Senior High School. After graduating high school in 1975, she attended Massey Business College and received an Associate Degree in Business Administration. Ellen continued to pursue her education, matriculating at Texas Southern University (TSU) and graduated with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mathematics and a Minor in History in 1983. Additionally, she earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education and Texas Provisional Certifications in Secondary Mathematics, Secondary History, and Secondary Generic Special Education.
In 1980, Ellen met the love of her life Chukwuma “Chuma” Okoli. The two married on June 21, 1981. Through a loving marriage, God blessed them with 3 beautiful children: Ian Emeka Uzoma, Criston Nkemka, and Crystal Chioma. Ellen loved spending quality time with her children, especially playing various board games, card games, and dominoes while at the same time using them as teaching tools to enhance their math skills and vocabulary. During her free time, she enjoyed watching game shows and sporting events, particularly football and basketball. As a family, they enjoyed taking Summer and Christmas vacations, traveling the United States with her mother always by her side.
Ellen began her 25-year teaching career in the Houston Independent School District as a Math and Special Education teacher at Hogg Middle School. Upon moving to San Antonio, TX, she continued her teaching career with the Judson Independent School District until her retirement in 2011. Her passion and enthusiasm for teaching and student development resulted in her becoming a favorite amongst faculty, staff, and students.
Ellen began her duties as First Lady in 1997, when her husband, Rev. Chuma Okoli was appointed the Pastor of Williams Chapel A.M.E. Church in Pattison, TX. She was instrumental, along with her husband, in establishing strong relationships with neighboring churches, schools and organizations. After committing two years of service, Rev. Okoli was appointed Pastor of East Orange A.M.E. Church (Houston, TX). First Lady Ellen became an active member of the Women’s Missionary Society and joined the Texas Conference Ministers’ Spouses, Widows and Widower Organization, Plus P.K.’s (MSWAWO + PK’s). After diligently serving for 7 years, they moved to San Antonio, TX where Rev. Okoli was appointed Pastor of Emmanuel A.M.E. Church. First Lady Ellen was excited to work with the Women’s Ministry, the local Women’s Missionary Society and with the Southwest Conference MSWAWO + PK’s.
As Rev. Okoli’s assignment ended in San Antonio, they returned to Houston to serve as Presiding Elder and First Lady of the North Houston District of the Texas Conference. Ellen loved supporting her husband and was thrilled to be back home where she could continue to provide care and assistance to her mother whose health was declining. First Lady Ellen was a dedicated daughter, supportive wife and loving mother. She was adored by many and a blessing in all our lives. Ellen will be greatly missed.
On November 23, 2020 at 10:10 A.M., Ellen transitioned, and her spirit was received into the bosom of her Heavenly Father. Her earthly assignment had been completed. Ellen fought a good fight and finished her course. She leaves in God’s Care: her faithful and loving husband Presiding Elder Chuma Okoli; children, Ian Okoli (Arleshia), Criston Okoli (Jasmine), and Crystal Okoli; sisters, Sandra Williams and Mary Lindsey (Omar) and a host of relatives and friends.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7
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