Celebration of Life for Ora Lee Finn

Oral Lee Garman Finn

Oral Lee Garman was born sixth of seven siblings to Jake Bunion and Lubertha Bell German on January 28, 1940, in Independence, Louisiana. On Sunday, January 11, 2003, her beautiful soul departed for rest. Her family and friends feels tremendous loss for someone who was so special  to them, however, they are all grateful for being a part of the life of such a remarkable spirit. 

Her early educational training began at Burger Elementary in Independence, La. She graduated Class Valedictorian from West Side High School in 1957. Mrs. Finn continued her education throughout the years at Southern University, Louisiana State University, and Southeaster Louisiana University, earning her Bachelor, Master, Master +30, and Educational Specialist Degrees.

As prominent educator, Mrs. Finn, devoted over 33 years to the students, the parents, and the communities of Tangipahoa Parish. She began her career as a teacher in 1965 at O.W. Dillon High School in Kentwood, LA., and briefly taught at West Side School until integration in 1969.

After integration, she transferred to Amite High School where the invested over 30 professional years influencing and affecting numerous lives. Mrs. Finn taught Biology and Math for eleven years. In 1980, she became Assistant Principal; and in 1990 she was named principal, the first Black woman principal ever at Amite High School. Even well after retirement in 1998, he loved for teaching children and her love for working with people continued at various schools in the parish. 

In 1957, she married her only love, Melvin Finn, former Amite Assistant Chief of Police. From their union Melvin and Ora was blessed with three devoted children: Samara Bonita, Schrirra Montrell, and Tigia Motice Finn.

Butler A.M. E. Zion Church in where the Finn family has worshipped for over forty years. Mrs. Finn served as Adult Sunday school Teacher and Sunday school Treasurer. She implemented many programs and activities for the youths of the church during those years. As a faithful members, Mrs. Finn became a "Living Testimony" to those who witnessed her God-like spirit in action.

She leaves to cherish her wonderful memories: her having husband, Melvin Finn of Amite: oldest daughter, Samara (husband Larry) Joseph fDecatur, GA: only son, Schirra (wife Gina) Finn, Sr.; youngest daughter, Tigia M. Finn both of Amite; three grandchildren: Sean and Syrus Finn of Amite, Kahilla Finn of New Orleans; two sisters: Elousie Steptoe of Independence; Lizzie Collins of New Orleans; two brother: Dan German, Millton German of Peoria, II.: and a host of nieces, nephew, cousins godchildren, other relatives, and close friends.

Mrs. Finn was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lubertha German of Independence;  one brother, Hilton German, Sr.; one sister, Love Thompson both of Peoria, II.; three brothers-in-law: Nelson Finn, Alfred Finn bought of CA, Wallace Collins of New Orleans; three nieces: Sharon Edwards of Seattle, Wa., Betty Seiber of Peoria, II., Gwendolyn Tanner of Independence, La.; one nephew, Gregory Collins of New Orleans, LA.

Reprint for the Funeral Program of Oral Lee Finn

Source: Richardson Funeral Home, Inc, Amite