Ms. Onita Mae Terrell

CELEBRATING THE LIFE of Onita Mae Terrell Onita Mae Terrell began her beautiful journey of life on June 5, 1955, at Fauquier County Hospital and was raised in Culpeper County, Virginia. From an early age, her genuine love, nurturing spirit, and natural ability to care for others left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Although she fought against Lupus for more than 40 years, she surrendered to God's call and accepted her wings on March 17, 2026. Onita was baptized at a young age and joined Antioch Baptist Church in Culpeper, Virginia. As she grew in faith, her renewed commitment and dedication became increasingly evident. This was covenanted by her choice to be baptized again as an adult under the worship of Bishop Robert E. White at New Hope Baptist Church in Forestville, Maryland. A faithful and devoted member, Onita served wholeheartedly on the Hospitality Committee, where she was eventually appointed Chairperson. She took great pride in serving the Lord and His people. Onita truly lived life to the fullest. She graduated from Culpeper County High School in 1973 and was so excited to attend her 50th class reunion. During her high school years, she also attended Piedmont Technical School (formerly Carver High School), where she learned to type faster than the average person and to take shorthand. As a young girl growing up in Culpeper, she was a proud Girl Scout and sang with the Up With The People Choir. Onita accomplished so many worthy goals and other valuable achievements that it would take a book to capture them all. With her bubbly personality and strong work ethic, Nita began working at a young age. Her very first and never-ending job was as the "Big Sister," also self-appointed as the third parent. She also worked at the Soul Shack, a beloved Black-owned record store on Davis Street, where she had the music and the town pumping on Saturday mornings. She later relocated to Washington, DC, and followed in her father's footsteps by joining the federal workforce at the Department of Energy. However, her true calling came when she began what would become a remarkable 42-year career with Communities In Schools, Inc. (formerly Cities In Schools). There, her compassion, dedication, and radiant spirit shined brightly as she embodied Bill Milliken's belief that "programs don't change people, relationships do." She took this into her everyday life, where she could make a friend or connection in any room, and she would transfer or use her resources to help those in need. Nita was always on the move, never allowing life to slow her down. In addition to her career, she worked part-time and wholeheartedly supported others in their pursuits. For over two decades, she shared her warmth and joy through her work with Jason Tours & Limousines, LLC, where she connected with people, explored new places, and created lasting memories. If you knew Nita, you knew she loved her people-deeply and unapologetically. Family, friends, church members, coworkers, neighbors, and especially the young people she adored were at the center of her world. As the eldest of eight siblings, she naturally stepped into leadership early-lovingly known for being "a little bossy," but always with a heart full of love. She also gave back to her community by serving for many years as President of the Forest Spring Homeowners' Association and volunteering annually with the Toys for Tots Project. She found joy in life's simple and meaningful moments-playing games, cooking, dancing, traveling, and celebrating others. And if you really knew her, you knew she was a proud fan of the Dallas Cowboys. Onita will be lovingly remembered by many names-"Nita," "NeNe," "OT," "Neat," "Mama Nita"-but most cherished were the titles of Godmommy, Auntie, and Nana. She was deeply loved by people from all walks of life who were blessed to experience her joyful spirit. She shared a special and enduring love with her devoted fiancé, Tim Williams. Her legacy lives on through her beloved siblings: James Terrell, Jr. (Jane), Jedania Terrell, Twanna Lesperance (Pierre), Andrill Harris (Ira, Sr.), and Darlene Terrell; two generations of nieces and nephews, including her honorary daughter, Amber Nolon; and her two youngest loves, Alena and Immanuel Sylla, whom she cherished as her grandchildren. She also leaves behind her godchildren, extended family, dear friends, and special coworkers who will forever carry her love in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, James (Sr.) and Mary Terrell; her brothers, Curtis and Jerrold Terrell (Stephanie); her nephew, Horascio Terrell; and her goddaughter, Lil Nita Love Gibson. We find peace in knowing they are reunited once again. Until we meet Onita again, may her soul rest in heavenly peace, and may her legacy of love continue to live on through each of us.

Ms. Onita Mae Terrell

June 5, 1955 - March 17, 2026