Elizabeth Camille Okagbare

Elizabeth Camille (Williams) Okagbare, daughter of Mary (Trimble) McDonald and Jonathan McDonald was born on August 27, 1962, in the Bronx, NY, and departed this life on October 30th, 2023 in Falmouth, MA. Elizabeth grew up in Detroit, MI with five sisters, moving to Atlanta, GA later in life before spending the last 16 years of her life on Cape Cod. Elizabeth was an exceptionally vibrant, proud, loving mother of five.

Often described as being a “bright light” to those who knew her, Elizabeth loved socialising and had a magnetism about her that people always seemed to gravitate toward. Throughout her battle with cancer, she remained full of charisma and maintained her joyous demeanor and hopeful spirit. This was her strength. “It’s not the years in our life that matter, but the life in our years” she said. Elizabeth loved Jehovah and held a significant appreciation for beauty -- in the arts, in life, and especially in nature -- where she could often be found camping. Passionate about knowledge, Elizabeth was well-read and well-versed in world religions. She was on the path to becoming a Chaplain and the Holy Bible was her favorite book.

Elizabeth received her education in the public schools of Detroit, MI, graduating from Frank Cody High School. At the time of her passing, Elizabeth was a Human Services major in college. Her generous and loving spirit manifested in much of her work in early childhood education for 15 years, before going on to work in the community/social services industry for over a decade. Elizabeth was a dedicated volunteer for the Alzheimer's Family Support Center, A Baby Center, The Samaritans, and Faith Family Kitchen in Hyannis, MA. She was also a member of the National Council of Negro Women.

Elizabeth was a compassionate leader and a beloved friend to many (and really, anyone in her presence). It was typical, on outings, to look over and see Elizabeth lively engaging with a new acquaintance. Elizabeth, in depart, remains a light that could never fade; a life and light that shall long be remembered by her children, whom she referred to as the “jewels in her crown”, as well as those she crossed paths with, and many to whom she lent a helping hand or assistance through hard times.

Elizabeth is survived by her four daughters Oshetisi (Geoff) Stanney, Naima Okagbare, (Oghenenyore) Fatimah Okagbare, and Jaita Okagbare; One son, Mudiaga Okagbare, and one granddaughter, Kaori Croom. Elizabeth is also mourned by her five sisters, Niema, Kenya, Wardi, Khadijah, and Neka, three nephews, several great-nieces and nephews, and a host of family and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Jonathan McDonald.