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FLORETTA McKENZIE Obituary
Dr. FLORETTA DUKES McKENZIE
Superintendent of DC Public Schools in the 1980's, passed away on March 23, 2015. She was born in Lakeland, FL in 1935 to Martin W. Dukes, Sr. and Ruth Jeter Dukes. The family moved to Washington, DC in 1951 where she attended Dunbar High School (1952), DC Teacher's College (B.S Degree), Howard University (Masters Degree), George Washington University (Ed. D). Dr. McKenzie served on the board of Trustees at Howard U. for 21 years and was deemed Trustee Emeritas She also was on the boards of several corporations, such as, Marriott Corporation, PEPCO, Carefirst, Acacia Insurance. A legendary educator from the heart, she later founded The Mckenzie Group, a consulting firm that focused on urban schools until her retirement. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Gracie (Mitchell) Beck. She leaves to mourn, two loving children, Kevin McKenzie and Dona Kilpatrick (Keddrick); siblings, Adrienne Marble, Dr. Martin W. Dukes, Jr. (Julie), Carolyn Dukes Alexander and Lawrence Dukes; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and several cousins.In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Parkinson's Foundation at: http://www3.parkinson.org/goto/Dr_Floretta_Dukes_McKenzie_MemorialFund Celebration of Life - Memorial Service Saturday, April 18, 2015 at 1 p.m.Howard University's Cramton Auditorium2455 6th Street, NWWashington, DC
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Memories and Condolences
for FLORETTA McKENZIE
Frank Simmons
April 11, 2019
Donna & Kevin, not many days pass that I don"t think about Flo. The lunches,the dinners and most of all the fishing trips and shared conversations about life. As long as Flo is in our thoughts she'll always be around.
Patricia Harbour
May 9, 2015
To Flo's Family
My deepest sorrow is the lost of Flo,a powerful leader, a loving mom, a gifted educator.
My greatest joy is having known her and worked with her to implement her pet program in the DC Scools, Public Private Partnership. To know her was an inspiration. I am grateful for her support, kindess, and friendship. What fun we had working to make a difference for students and our own children. I remember the summer we planned for our girl's to attend Rim Rock summer Camp. She leaves a legacy which i noted in my book. Her work lives forever in the hearts and cntributions of all those touched by her efforts.
Patricia Moore Harbour
Robin Walker Dacus
April 23, 2015
To Dona and Kevin,
No words can express my sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. We tried to get in touch with your mother when my mother (Ethel Walker) passed on February 22. I will always have fond memories of the times I spent with your family at the beach!!! Love to you all!!
Frank Simmons
April 18, 2015
Floretta,"Flo" was the most authentic and closest friend that I'll ever have. Talking current events then, about the fish that got away. I've been touched by an angel. We never lose we give to God.
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Joyce A. Johnson
April 18, 2015
Dr. McKenzie was my geography teacher at Kelly Miller Junior High School. Our paths crossed some 30 years later. When I saw her again, she remembered me and called me by name. I was surprised after all those years. I was so happy to see her. My sincere condolences to you on the loss of your mother. She was a great Educator. In my opinion, she was the best Superintendent here in the District of Columbia. I was saddened to hear of her passing. We have lost a great Educator. May God comfort you and your family.
Rosemary Carr
April 17, 2015
Mrs. McKenzie was my 8th grade civics teacher at Kelly Miller Junior High. I have been very proud of her over the years and blessed that she crossed my path at such an early age. She had a very distinct speaking voice and taught us to think and be interactive. The community has lost an inspiration.
McCarthy
April 17, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. May the Most High God (Psalm 83:18) comfort you as you mourn your loved one.
April 17, 2015
Dear Donna and Kevin,
Wishing you God's peace at this time.
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of your Mom. She was a very warm and loving person. May the many great memories you have help to sustain you.
Most Sincerely,
Norma Nickens Ijadunola
R Y
April 16, 2015
My deepest condolences for your loss. May your hearts find comfort from God's marvelous future promises. 1 Cor. 15:21,26
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