Celina Dell Winfield

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Celina Winfield: Celina Brooks Winfield was born on April 24, 1949, in Columbus, Georgia, to Espy and Grace Brooks. At just five years old, she and her family moved to Belle Chasse, Louisiana, where her roots and faith took deep hold. As the third of seven children, Celina grew up surrounded by the love of a large, close-knit family. Her faith journey began early when she accepted Christ and was baptized at Greater Morning Star Baptist Church, beginning a lifelong devotion to service and spiritual growth. A proud graduate of the Plaquemines Parish School System, Celina went on to attend Grambling State University, where she majored in accounting and became a devoted member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Psi Beta Chapter, Fall 1970). Her academic and sorority life laid the foundation for a life of leadership, generosity, and excellence. After college, Celina’s career took her to Cleveland, Ohio, where she worked as an auditor at one of the nation’s top accounting firms. It was there she met her beloved husband, Clarence Winfield. Their love story blossomed into a joyful marriage that lasted over two decades, filled with shared dreams and unwavering support. Together, they moved to Toledo, Ohio, to pursue graduate studies at the University of Toledo, where Celina earned her MBA in Accounting. Celina’s passion for accounting turned into an exceptional career that spanned more than 30 years at Owens Corning, where she achieved the esteemed position of Global Property Accounting Manager. Even in retirement, her love for numbers continued as she served as a Senior Financial Analyst at the University of Toledo and as President of the Winfield Accounting and Tax Firm. Her financial expertise was recognized far and wide, earning her board positions and accolades from numerous organizations, including the AM Investment Firm, Frederick Douglas Center, and the John H. McKissick Senior Apartment’s Board, Zeta XI ZETA Sorority Executive Board. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Celina was a steadfast servant of her community and church. Since 2009, she was a faithful member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in Toledo, where she served as a trustee and Assistant Treasurer. She found joy in Sunday School, the Pastoral Support Group, and the Matthew Circle. Celina’s giving spirit was evident in the many ways she supported others — from mentoring youth in math to guiding seniors through taxes and financial decisions. Celina was known not only for her brilliant mind but also for her big heart and warm home. Celina had a great passion for reading, gardening, and cooking, especially her Louisiana seafood dishes. Her red beans and rice and her gumbo dishes were second to none. Many of the kids in the neighborhood would go to her house daily to eat. A proud and active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Celina was honored with numerous awards, including Soror of the Year, Outstanding Mother of the Year, and the Trailblazer Certificate of Appreciation. She was a true role model in her profession and every aspect of her life. Celina was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clarence S. Winfield Sr., her parents, and siblings Samuel Espy Brooks, Aufwiedersehen Agboka and brother-in-law Dr.Joseph Agboka. She leaves behind a legacy of love and impact that lives on through her children: Clarence Winfield Jr. of Toledo, Cepeachtria Winfield-Porter of Miami, Aufwiedersehen Winfield, and J’Vann Winfield-Agee (Billy); her cherished granddaughters Celina Winfield-White and Aufwiedersehen Agee, all of Toledo; her siblings Vilche E. Brooks (Angela), Sallie L. Ambrose, Nettie M. Roche, and Debbie S. Kelland (Kenneth) all of New Orleans, Louisiana ; special friends Christine Harper, Lunette Howell, Tina Asiedu, and Godson Solomon Asiedu held unique places in her heart. A wide circle of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, sorority sisters, church family, and friends. Celina Winfield lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and an unshakable commitment to uplifting those around her. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Celina Dell Winfield

April 24, 1949 - May 3, 2025