GSU remembers employee of 34-years

Funeral services were held Saturday, Aug. 22 for Daphne Lenore Bernard McGhee in Bernice.  

Courtesy photo
Daphne L. Bernard McGhee smiles with her daughter Candance.

Ms. McGhee was the second child born to Wilfred Bernard, Jr. and Joyce Watley Bernard on Aug. 28, 1958.  On Thursday, Aug. 13 the Lord called this beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece and friend home to be at rest.

Daphne was born in New Orleans.  In 1973, she moved with her mother and siblings to Bernice.  She united with New Hopewell Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. E.W. Smith.  

Daphne was a faithful member of New Hopewell for over 30 years.  Over the years, she served in numerous volunteer positions in the church including financial secretary and an assistant on the Pastor’s Aid Committee.

Daphne graduated with honors from Bernice High School in 1979.  She continued her education at Grambling State University, earning an undergraduate degree in office administration and a Master’s of Arts Degree in public administration.  

Throughout her outstanding 34-year career at GSU, she served as a loyal and dedicated employee who selflessly assisted the faculty and staff. Daphne was a key and integral member of the staff which made Grambling a world-class institution for higher learning.  She was instrumental in preparing young people for college.  She took the time to mentor and shape young minds, provided expert advice and counsel and often provided transportation for students.

Daphne was dedicated and committed to serving the community.  She served as a board member of the Union Federal Credit Union.  She also served on numerous occasions as Voting Commissioner of the Union Parish Voting League.

She was united in marriage to Raymond McGhee.  To this union, one child was born, their beloved Candance Nicole.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Reuben and Darrly Bernard.

She leave to cherish her memories: her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Candance McGhee-Williams and Eric Williams; grandchild, Kailyn Williams; four sisters, Ava (Marlon) Martin, Mary Bovie, Ashley Bernard Franklin and Katrina Bernard; one brother, Kyle (Marian) Bernard; aunts, Myrtle Everett, Maxine Smith, Leair Dell Cooke, Marion Watley, Reah Bernard, Verna Schexnayder and Wilhemina (Herman) Armour; one uncle, Gerald Bernard (Rheta); a host of devoted family and friends.