On Friday, January 2, 2026, Meola V. McDonald peacefully entered eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of faith in God, love, and service.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Elnora Ingram, her beloved husbands – Alonzo Gray and William McDonald; her son, Alonzo Gray Jr.; and her siblings – Arthur Jr., Charles, Clifton and Raymond Ingram and her dear sister, Marion Johnson.

Born in Rocky Mount, NC, Meola was the cherished eldest of six children. From an early age, she embraced responsibility and care for her siblings, setting the tone for a life devoted to family and community. She joyfully confessed her love for the Lord and was baptized at St. Mark’s A.M.E. Church. Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was dedicated to Bible Study and was a loving Sunday School teacher who shared her musical gifts in the children’s choir as a vocalist and pianist.

Her Christian devotion only deepened over the years, as a proud and active member of The Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Floyd H. Flake and Rev. Dr. Elaine M. Flake. Meola served tirelessly in ministries that touched countless lives—The Shepherds Ministry, The Mass Choir, Ladies Usher Board #1, President, The Stewardess Board and The North Carolina Club, Vice President. Her warm smile and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home in God’s house.

Education was also important to Meola. After graduating from Booker T. Washington High School in NC, she pursued her studies at Cornell University in Manhattan NY, majoring in Business Administration. Her professional journey was marked by excellence and dedication. Meola enjoyed her many years with the United States Postal Service, rising through the ranks from Letter Carrier to Superintendent of Station Branches. Her leadership and integrity earned her the respect of colleagues and the admiration of all who worked with her.

Beyond her career, Meola was deeply committed to community service and sisterhood. She was a proud member of Mizpah Chapter #13, Order of Eastern Star as a Worthy Matron, lifetime member of The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) Queens County Section and The Greater Allen Cathedral Senior Residence Tenants Association, President. Her contributions were many—chairing committees, organizing community programs, and advocating for education and health initiatives. Meola believed in lifting others up and making a difference wherever she could.

She leaves behind her devoted children—Valeria, Debra and Joseph Gray—along with 15 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 2 nieces – Carol Ingram and Jaronda Walker; 2 nephews – Abdule Ingram and Arthur Ingram III, 1 great niece, 3 great nephews, 2 cousins Thomasena Wade and Eric Washington, and a host of other relatives and dear friends who will forever cherish her memories.

Meola will be remembered for her unwavering faith in God, her generous heart, her love of music, and her ability to make everyone feel valued. Her life was a beautiful example of grace and service, and her legacy will forever live on in the lives she touched.

“I truly love the Lord and worship Him each day of my life in love and with service to people and motivation to the highest levels of a spiritual life.” Meola

Meola’s life was rich with LOVE!