Death date: Mar 3, 2021
On Wednesday March 3, 2021, Mavis Agbandje-McKenna passed away from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at her home in Gainesville, FL at the age of 57. Mavis is survived by her spouse, Robert McKenna; children, Sean McKenna and N Read Obituary
McKenna's Full Service
Our daughters were friends, and I thought Mavis was simply wonderful. He laughter was contagious and nothing seemed to faze her. She loved her family. It was clear they were her joy. Her work was important to her. Mavis always seemed to be having grad students over or getting things together for her department. I always thought it must be great to be one of her students. Even with my scant knowledge of biochemistry, I was clear to me that Mavis was super smart. I am proud to have known her. My deepest condolences to the Agbandje and McKenna families and especially to Rob, Sean, and Nicole.
From the Bella-Tabernero family
Mavis, you were always a role model to us and a great friend. We will always remember your big big smile!!
Love from Jordi, Lydia, Georgina and Laura
I was lucky enough to work with Mavis and Rob, in the McKenna Lab from 2000-2001. I received my undergrad degree in Neuroscience and Mavis didn't just give me a chance, as a lab technician, she changed the trajectory of my career and my life. Her mentoring and empathy allowed me to talk about and share my Epilepsy condition openly, in a work setting, that years down the line, it kept me working when I should have become medically disabled at 36 yo. Her example, her kindness, and her humor, let me see how to live life a little lighter with the sharing of open hearted kindness. I eventually became a Healthcare Administrator and a Professional and Nationally ranked Diversity and Inclusion Practitioner. The McKenna Lab, and Mavis showed me team inclusion at 22 yo, and I was able to model that over the last 18 years, helping thousands of individuals, groups, and organizations. I will never forget her. She was a giant, that the rest of us will always try to emulate, but even as we may try, we will never be able to replace her greatness. Love and miss you.❤️
