Lucille O’Neal
Today as an active mother of four adult children, a grandmother of fifteen, she takes her role of parenting and grand parenting very seriously!
Her involvement in numerous youth oriented and community projects has proved that she is sincere and passionate about helping others who are less fortunate. While being a caring and serene person, her commitment and devotion to volunteer projects is reflected in her past and current involvement with various organizations such as: The Orlando Chapter of the United Negro College Fund, Ovarian Cancer Alliance of Orlando, The Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Florida Hospital Foundation, Trey Whitfield Foundation Scholarship Fund, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, President of Mother’s of Professional Basketball Players Association Inc., and is the Southeast Director of The Odessa Chambliss Quality of Life Fund which is the fund established by her family to help raise monies for educational need, the Odessa Chambliss Health Equity Center and nursing scholarships.
After 30 years of raising two sons and two daughters, Lucille resumed her studies in an Adult Education Program at Bethune-Cookman University where she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration (June 2003). In March 2005 she completed her graduate program (Master of Arts in Organizational Management) at the University of Phoenix.
The scripture Proverbs 3: 5 and 6 that says: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” has been a personal creed for Lucille throughout her adult life. This creed has now become a legacy that she faithfully passes on to her children and everyone she encounters. While supporting her church (a quaint family focused work that is centered in the heart of Orlando’s Parramore District) and her community, the Lord placed a mantle on Lucille to speak words of encouragement, empowerment and inspiration to women (mothers, youth and seniors), men and families from a very practical and relevant platform; her personal life experiences. Through her trials and testimonies Lucille has remained a pillar of unwavering faith and obedience to God’s direction and solutions for victorious living.
Lucille shares her life story candidly – and often humorously in her book “Walk Like You Have Somewhere to Go” as well as in her keynotes. Touching on her years of spiritual unrest and mental welfare, she shares her struggles and disappointments against the backdrop of her sweetest memories and proudest accomplishments. After 59 years, she gained the wisdom to recognize her wrongs and guide other women down a different path. Her story is proof that it is never too late for a new beginning. Although she is soft spoken and gentle, she remains strong and courageous. Lucille will always remind you that…GOD HAS THE MASTER PLAN!
This fund honors the lifetime accomplishments of our Mother, Odessa Chambliss. At the time of her death we learned that is not the quantity of years you live, but the quality of your life that is so important. We as a family are committed to supporting this principle and enhancing the lives of others through educational and nursing scholarships.
The Mothers of Professional Basketball Players, Inc. was formed to represent the connection to the world of professional basketball and the world at large. The primary mission of this organization is to support our communities where our sons and daughters live, work and play; however, we strive to invest in the human soul through our charitable works and fundraising efforts.