Lela Pearl El Fundi

Lela Pearl El Fundi, 83, of Duluth, Minnesota passed away January 5, 2022 peacefully in her home. She was born August 3, 1938 in Braxton Mississippi to Edward and Susie Green. She was a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, family and friend to so many. She was the matriarch of our family and one of the eldest leaders. Lela was known for her gentleness, giving spirit, and kind heart. She was a woman full of discernment and wisdom. Lela Pearl was a precious jewel to us that can never be replaced, used mightily by God to produce many generations after her.

Lela worked many years in the Health and Human Services field as a healthcare worker, educator, hairdresser, and community activist. She had many gifts and talents including her cooking, baking abilities, artistry and design. She took great joy in all of her grandchildren and was proud to be a mother to so many. Her passion was for her family and children. She thrived to see them all have a good life and do great things. Her life was one who brought unity and connectedness to the people around her. She enjoyed planning and gathering for family events, traveling, gardening, cooking big meals for others, music, and talking to her sister every night. Lela gave her life to Christ and was filled with the Holy Spirit at a young age. She lived a life set with the example of diligent prayer and represented her dependence on Jesus daily and expressed her life in worship to him.

Lela Pearl Elfundi was the oldest of 10 children. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Green; mother, Susie Foote-Green; beloved husband, Niko El Fundi; sons, James C. Powe, and Johnny B. Powe; sister, Susie Green; brother, Leonard Green; step-sons, Clifton “Chop” Boykin, Darrel Boykin, and Anthony “Tony” Boykin; and step-daughter, Bridgitte Wilkens.

Lela is survived by her children, Darlene Green and Sadiki El Fundi; step-children, Leon Boykin and Darius Boykin; sisters, Letha Houston and Mary Green-Hamilton; brothers, Edward “Sonny” Green, Jess Green, Gerald Green, Vernon Green, and Bruce Green; step-sister Christine Jones; step-brother, NC Michael; 23 grandchildren; a multitude of great-grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and family.

Joint Visitation for Lela and Niko to be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, Jan. 19th at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, with Funeral Service to follow at Noon. Interment will be in Sunrise Memorial Park.

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