March 8, 2019 - (IN MEMORY) Elma Swindall and Selma Swindall McClelland, two sisters who made a great impact to education in the Shelby County area and in Center. Miss Elma would always boast about her playing basketball secretly until her mother, Mahalia, finally gave in after encouragement from Miss Mody Nobles, who was the coach back then. After graduation from college, Miss Elma began teaching and continued for many years before retirement. A surprise tribute to her was given by former students who witnessed her strong determination to help others; for her courage, creativity and consistency in serving human kind to the point of their greatest need. Miss Elma lived in a nice brick home until her health failed and she then moved into an assistant living home. She was bombarded with visitors since they loved her conversations. For many years she attended the Daniels School Reunion and supported it when she could not attend and always encouraged the committee to keep it going.
Selma Swindall McClelland was just like her sister with her education and career with the only difference, marriage. Mrs. Selma became a McClelland but still kept up with her sister. Her career began with teaching after graduating from Texas College and later received her Masters from Prairie View University. She became the principal of Jericho School. before teaching in the elementary classes at Daniels School and later Center Elementary. It is important to say she never missed work because of her illness, but missed a few days because of family illness. Now that is dedication. She was very grateful to the many parents, students, and other community people who cooperated with her as she solicited their toleration, compassion, and prayers for the success in her rewarding teaching career. Elma and Selma are two names the citizens of Center will never forget.
