Toledo A. McGee - Okmulgee Times (2024)

On Saturday, June 29, 1940, a gorgeous baby girl was born to Oscar Higgs, Sr. and Hattie (Dunn) Higgs in Idabel. Her Dad chose her unique name, Toledo Ann, later to be affectionately known as Leda to those closest to her.

At a young age, she and her sister, Ollie, began their walk with Christ after hearing the evangelistic message preached by their brother, Elder John Higgs. She often taught Sunday School and delivered evangelistic messages on many occasions. She faithfully served as the musical director at the Church of the Living God until her health began to decline.

Toledo’s thirst for knowledge began early in life. She embarked on her educational journey at Uganda Martyr Catholic School and later completed her secondary education at Historic Dunbar High School. Her commitment to education was evident even then, as she often shared childhood stories of assisting classmates who were falling behind in their lessons and sometimes sacrificing recess to ensure they grasped their lessons.

After high school, Toledo’s pursuit of knowledge led her to the historic HBCU, Langston University. After a brief absence, she returned to Okmulgee to work for the late Dr. Robert Taylor, Sr., in his dental office. Dr. Taylor’s encouragement spurred her to continue her education while working, and she eventually earned her bachelor’s degree from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. Her teaching career began at Oklahoma City Public Schools, followed by a position at Beggs Elementary School and returning to Okmulgee to teach at the historical Attucks Middle School.

In 1979, Toledo’s life took a new turn when she met Paul McGee, the love of her life. Together, they continued their education pursuit, earning counselors’ certifications and then completing postgraduate administrative degrees and becoming principals. Toledo’s leadership and dedication were recognized when she accepted a position as the Vice Principal at Okmulgee High School in 1982. She later became the principal at Westside Elementary School before retiring, leaving a legacy of excellence and dedication to education.

At the end of 2022, Toledo’s health began to decline further. She was dutifully cared for by her devoted husband, dear friend, Nurse Jennifer Bridgeman, and her loving June 29, 1940 – May 15, 2024

daughter, Lisa, with her loving son, Byron, checking on her often. On May 15, 2024, Toledo surrendered her life peacefully to rest in the arms of Jesus.

Her parents, fatherin- law Henry McGee, brothers John Higgs (Mae), Oscar Higgs, Jr., and Arzell Higgs (Wynata), and brotherin- law Arthur “Junior” DeBouse preceded her in death. Her sisters Cozell Higgs Bowie (Earl) and Ollie Higgs, along with two infant siblings, also preceded her in death.

She leaves in God’s loving arms her loving and devoted husband of the home, Paul Mc-Gee; her adoring children, Byron Hamilton, Okmulgee, and Lisa Currington (Douglas), Glenpool; a loved grandchild, Destiny Hamilton; and two caring great-grandchildren, Masen Hamilton and Mikail Byrd. She also leaves to cherish her memory her brother, Overseer Clindell Higgs (Letricia), Oklahoma City; her motherin- law, Louise McGee; sisters-in-law, Eunice Higgs (Okmulgee), Lois McGee, Checotah, Zenia DeBouse of Oklahoma City, Bettye Burton (Willie), Wichita, Kansas, Bobbie Benson (George), Longview, Texas, Linda Yerger (Cardis), Seattle, Washington, and Maeleatha Patterson, Oklahoma City; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, along with her many friends, co-workers and adopted family member, Nurse Jennifer Bridgeman.

The Sacred Hour to celebrate her life and legacy will commence on Saturday morning, May 25, 2024, at 11 a.m. in the most holy sanctuary of First Baptist Church, 311 W. 5th Street in Okmulgee. Dr. Brayden Buss is the gracious host Pastor and Elder Marcus Long, Pastor of the Church of the Living God Temple #258, will be presiding over the ceremonies. The Christian Committal rites will follow the celebration at Woodlawn Cemetery in Okmulgee. You may visit Mrs. McGee as she slumbers in sweet repose in the Chapel of Peace of Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. of Okmulgee on Friday, May 24, 2024, from 1-6 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. – Okmulgee Chapel.