Kingcess Beatrice Whiteside

Kingcess Beatrice Mahoney Whiteside, Commonly known as "Kay"(1943-2012). Kingcess was born on September 11, 1943 in Banjul, the Gambia to the late James and Princess Mahoney. She was the third child of six children: Louis, Perdita (deceased), Kingcess (deceased), James (deceased), Cynthia, and Millicent (deceased). Kingcess’s name was special as it was the bonding of her father, the upright Principal of St. Mary’s School in the Gambia, who’s family gave him the nickname “King” and Kingcess’s mum, a beautiful, warm, friendly woman called “Princess.” Therefore Kingcess’s name captured the qualities of both her parents. In 1971, Kingcess began her journey in the United States to continue her education at the Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio where she obtained her Bachelors of Arts degree in Education. During this time, Kingcess met Earl Huston Whiteside, whom she later married on January 19, 1974. Kingcess resumed her career in teaching at the Ulla Muller Elementary School in St. Thomas Virgin Islands where she resided for eight years. She coordinated the Environmental Science Program (ESP) in St. Thomas where she exposed many of her students to the treasures of nature. Her career transitioned back to the United States, where she continued teaching for two years in South Carolina at Allendale Elementary School. Kingcess concluded her teaching career in Fort Worth, Texas at South Hills Elementary and Morningside Elementary School. She retired from the Forth Worth Independent School District after twenty plus years. Kingcess influenced the lives of many of her students, who respected her strictness and recognized her talent and passion in the art of teaching. She influenced the lives of many of her students in a manner unique in education. Even through her final days, many of her treasured students remain in contact with their beloved instructor. Kingcess was a warm and generous mother, sister, and friend who opened her heart and home to many. She loved the art of speech, the exuberance of dance and music, the adventures of travel, and the elegance of dress. Kingcess was a long time member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where she vowed her commitment and faith to God. Kingcess will be dearly missed by her husband, Earl; her two daughters, Adeyinka (Aaron) and Asciatu; her two granddaughters, Imani and Anya; step grandchildren, Arianna and Jaden and her extended family and friends across the globe.