McDONALD, Sam Ella (Roberts) 1935-2018

MCDONALD

Posted By: K. L. Kittleson
Date: 8/14/2018 at 07:51:58

Sam Ella McDonald

Sam Ella McDonald, the daughter of Willie B. and Fred Lee Roberts, was born on December 19, 1935, in Waterloo, Iowa. She graduated from Jesup High School in 1953. Sam Ella came to know the LORD at a young age, and dedicated her life to loving on, and developing people of all ages.

Sam Ella, relocating to California, was married to Carl McDonald on June 13, 1954. With that union Sam Ella and Carl brought forth Iris, Valerie, and Kurt McDonald. Divorced November 5, 1965, Sam Ella relocated back to her hometown of Waterloo, Iowa. Sam Ella brought forth Keith Leonard James as her final child. Upon her return to Waterloo, she joined Antioch Baptist Church.

Sam Ella was hired as a bank teller with the Bank of America in the state of California. She then worked for the County Civil Service in Los Angeles County. Later, she returned to Tulsa, Oklahoma receiving her associate’s degree in applied science for medical secretary at Tulsa Jr. College graduating in May 1973. Returning to Waterloo, Sam Ella was hired as Executive Secretary at Head Start for four years. Deciding to go back to school, Sam Ella graduated from UNI with her bachelor’s degree (in 1982) in social and behavioral science with a certification in social work.

She then returned to Head Start as a social worker. Sam Ella retired from Head Start in 1998 from Tri-County Head as one of four program managers. After retirement Sam Ella spent her time spreading her love as a senior companion and an AARP employee. She often spent time keeping up with her great-grandchildren.

Sam Ella was also very active in the community as a long time Club Les Dames member, NAACP, Family and Children’s Council, and as a Boys Scout “Den Mother”. She also was a member of the National Association of Black Social Workers. Recently, Sam Ella was celebrated as one of the 8 over 80 in 2017.

Sam Ella is survived by her two daughters Iris Anderson and Valerie McDonald both of Waterloo, Iowa; one son, Keith James of Waterloo Iowa; seven (7) grandchildren: Christopher (Christina) of Atlanta; Tamara Anderson, of California, Elizabeth “Dee” McDonald, Timina (Miquan) Micou, Anthony Taylor, Mylani, and Keiana James, all of Waterloo; thirteen great-grandchildren; two sisters, Janet (Willie) Prymer and RaeDeanne (Charles) Humphries and one brother: Charles Roberts all of Waterloo, Iowa.

Sam Ella is preceded in death by her parents, son: Kurt Eric McDonald; sisters: Marion Butler, Ralla Roberts, Marynette Harris, Bessie Roberts (infant); brothers: Thomas, Fred, William, James, Leon, Rubble, and Aaron Roberts.

Condolences can be sent to 214 Harrison Street, Waterloo IA 50703. Please remit to Valerie McDonald.

SOURCE: Kearns funeral home website