With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Nadine Edelle King, a devoted wife, cherished mother, beloved sister, doting grandmother, treasured aunt, and irreplaceable "sistah-friend." After a courageous battle with lung cancer, Nadine peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, April 24, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born on November 5, 1938, to Jeanette Jackson Matthews and Preston Randolph Matthews, Nadine grew up in a loving and God-fearing home alongside her two older sisters, the late Doris Mann and Yvonne Greene. A bright and dedicated student, Nadine excelled at Dunbar High School. Her path took a delightful turn in 1955 when a mutual friend introduced her to Elton Franklin King, hoping he would be the tall escort she needed for her debutante ball. Their connection was immediate and enduring.

Nadine graduated from D.C. Teachers College in 1959 and married her beloved Elton on June 20, 1959. Her passion for learning led her to pursue further studies, earning credits in Maryland, Washington, DC, Turkey, and Spain, ultimately working towards her Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Supervision.

Nadine dedicated an impressive 60 years to the field of education, beginning her career in 1959. Beyond her roots in DC and Maryland, her love for teaching and adventure took her around the globe, where she inspired 4th to 6th graders in Yaounde, Cameroon; Madrid, Spain; Kinshasa, Zaire; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; and Libreville, Gabon. While she embraced all her students, she held a special fondness for the dynamic energy of her sixth graders.

Nadine and Elton shared a remarkable life, residing in nine African countries as they lovingly raised their three daughters, Dawn Eileen (predeceased), Melanie Patrice, and Karla Yvette. A poignant memory marked their first journey to Africa: a layover in Paris on the day President Kennedy was tragically assassinated in November 1963. Throughout their many overseas assignments, Nadine seamlessly balanced her teaching career with her role as an exceptional hostess. She graciously welcomed and entertained numerous foreign dignitaries and government officials in their home, thoughtfully curating excursions that showcased the local culture and beauty. Nadine and Elton were admired guests at embassy events, always impeccably dressed, with Nadine invariably sporting perfect hair and her signature stylish shoes. Their home, both abroad and in the US, was a haven of warmth and welcome, where all felt comfortable conversing in French and English. While in Africa, Nadine extended her nurturing spirit by assisting local workers in establishing and managing their own craft and produce businesses. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom as she organized and managed vital teacher training programs for educators in remote areas of Ethiopia, Cameroon, Zaire, and Togo. Their cherished photo albums are a vibrant testament to their picturesque and historically significant African adventures.

Nadine was a proud and active member of the Potomac Valley Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated, the Silver Spring, MD Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and The Society. She also held memberships in the Montgomery County Association of Black School Educators, the Montgomery County Education Association, and the NAACP.

Her grandchildren affectionately knew her as "Gammy," and she showered them with love and unforgettable experiences. From lively pool days in her backyard to learning the latest dance moves, exciting shopping sprees to outlet malls, memorable cruises and kid-centric vacations, and simply the joy of hanging out in their warm and loving home, Gammy made every moment a celebration.

Nadine radiated joy and possessed an infectious zest for life. She blessed her friends and family with her vibrant energy, illuminating presence, and wonderful sense of humor. Her grace and style always made a statement, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Nadine was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Doris Mann, and her eldest daughter, Dawn. She is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Elton F. King; her two daughters, Karla King and Melanie King; her six cherished grandchildren, Jillian Simons, Akouba Sampah, Monah Sampah, Andrew Thompson, Antoine Sampah, and Giselle Sampah; and her two beloved great-grandchildren, Ivory Sampah and Israel Sampah, who will deeply miss their precious Gammy love. She also leaves to cherish her memory her elder sister, Yvonne Greenee; her sister-in-love, Wilma K. Holmes; her three nieces, Ricki Fairley, Sharon Fairley, and Tisha Greenee; her nephew, Robert Greene; and their children and grandchildren. She will be sincerely missed by Alethia Spraggins, her dearest friend since childhood.

A celebration of Nadine's life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Transfiguration Church, 13925 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20904. Memorial services will be conducted by the Potomac Valley Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated at 9:30 AM, the Silver Spring Chapter of The Links, Incorporated at 9:50 AM, and The Society at 10:10 AM. The viewing will be held from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private for the family following the service.