Winnie Bell Teal

Obituary for Winnie Bell Whitaker Teal “Lord, I’m your child and You’re my father. Take me with you.” Winnie B. Whitaker Teal’s prayer was answered on Saturday morning, September 9, 2023, at her home in Stamford, CT at the age of 90 years old. Winnie, affectionately known as “Sister”, was born June 14, 1933, in Liberty Hill, South Carolina to the late Hollis and Fannie Jones Whittaker. She was one of 19 siblings. Winnie graduated from Boylan-Haven-Mather Academy Boarding School in Camden, SC. Winnie attended South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC. In 1954, Winnie relocated to Stamford, CT with her family. Winnie was united in marriage to John E. Teal in 1965 in Monroe, North Carolina. Winnie was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was well loved and loved everybody. Winnie was a “Favorite Person” to many family members and friends. Winnie’s kindness and generosity knew no bounds when it came to her friends and family. Winnie was employed by the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services, where she remained for 43 years until her retirement in August 2011. During her career, Winnie held many positions, culminating with the title of Supervisor in the Stamford office. Winnie’s most precious moments occurred while hosting family gatherings at her home. She always made sure to celebrate all the family milestones, making sure everyone felt special on their day. Winnie also enjoyed traveling; whether it was to visit family in the South, a Caribbean Cruise, or just local trips around the Northeast. Winnie leaves to cherish her memory, two daughters; Naomi (Maurice) Chapman-Taylor and Wendy Y. Teal, both of Stamford, her sister; Ruth Morgan, of Stamford, CT, one granddaughter; Yolanda (Brian) Smith of Stamford, one special granddaughter; Shawnda Whittaker of Playa del Rey, CA, three great granddaughters; Sierra, Rayonea, and Sanora Smith of Stamford, CT, as well as a host of devoted nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She will also be remembered fondly by her special friends; Marie Chantale Lops, Fay Chevannes, and Rose Marise Philemon and healthcare providers. Besides her husband John and her parents, Winnie was preceded in death by twelve brothers; Andrew, Jeremiah (Jerry), Burl, David, Isaiah, Benjamin, Joseph Sr, Rueben, Albert, Robert, Hollis Jr., and Johnny, and five sisters: Alice Perry, Maybell Shropshire, Silla, Ella, and Emma Whitaker. Visitation will be held on Friday September 15th, 2023 from 10:00AM - 11:00AM followed by a service of celebration at 11:00AM at Faith Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 29 Grove Street, Stamford, CT. Interment will follow at Fairfield Memorial Park, Stamford CT.

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Winnie Bell Teal

June 14, 1933 - September 9, 2023