Barbara McGee

Barbara McGee was born on September 26, 1950 in Champaign, IL to the union of Mozell Douglas and William Algee.  Barbara peacefully transitioned on February 1, 2021.

Barbara was baptized at an early age at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor WB Keaton where she remained a member under the leadership of Pastor Ricky Parks until her death.  Barbara loved the Lord and served as the Chairman of Annual Events and a member of the Building Fund Committee.  Barbara married Willie McGee on December 14, 1968, to this union three children were born.  Barbara and Willie divorced after 15 years of marriage. Barbara graduated from Urbana High School in 1969 where she played softball.  Barbara was one of the first participant in the University of Illinois Clerical Learners Program.  Barbara went on to work at CU Daycare and found her calling working with seniors, where she served as the Senior Citizen Coordinator at the Champaign Park District for over 20 years until she retired.  Barbara received the Race Unity Award from The Bahai Race Unity Committee and the Outstanding Leadership Award from the University of Illinois, Department of African American Studies. Barbara was also feature as a main character in the book “Leola and The Honeybears” by Melodye Benson Rosales.

Barbara leaves to cherish her sons, Alfonzo McGee, Willie McGee Jr. (Ashley) and daughter Michelle McGee all in Dallas TX.  Two sisters Linda Algee, Champaign, IL, Betty Sue Sayles, Urbana, IL and brother Larry Algee (Jean), Champaign, IL.   Seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  God father Nathan Henderson, Drakesboro, KY, God sisters Melinda White,Champaign, IL, Lola Johnson, Pensacola, FL and God brothers Ricky Foster, Atlanta, GA, and Tony Foster. Champaign, IL

Barbara was proceeded in death by her mother, Mozell Douglas Avant, fathers William Algee and Earlis Avant and Godmother Charlene Henderson.

A public viewing will commenced from 1-4pm Friday, February 5, 2021 at Leek & Sons- Urbana.  A celebration of life will begin at 12pm, Saturday, February 6, at Leek & Sons. Visitation will begin at 11am until the start of the service.  

Officiating Pastor Rickey E. Parks. Interment Grandview Memorial Gardens. 

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