Terry Gwinn

The National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc. announces the transition of Mr. Terry "Donnell" Gwinn, cousin of Association Member & NFDMA, Inc. Meeting Planner, Cornell W. Robinson-Cook.

The National Funeral Directors & Morticians Association, Inc. sincerely sympathizes with the Gwinn Family. May God continue to watch over you all. We give you this one thought to keep, "Although it's difficult today to see beyond sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Terry “Donell” Gwinn on August 6, 2025. Born on September 12, 1953, in Suwannee County, Florida, Donell was a trailblazer in Agriculture and a beloved community leader whose kindness and dedication touched many lives.

For over 40 years, Donell, alongside his brothers, operated Gwinn Brothers Farm in McAlpin, Florida. Their 1,137-acre farm was renowned for cultivating peanuts, watermelons, soybeans, corn, and peas. Under Donell’s stewardship, the farm became a cornerstone of the local economy and a shining example of sustainable farming practices.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to agriculture, Donell was honored with the Outstanding Agriculturalist of the year award from the Florida Association of County and Agricultural Agents, affiliated with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). He was also named one of Florida Trend Magazine’s 500 Most Influential Business Leaders, underscoring his statewide impact and leadership.

Donell was deeply involved in organizations that shaped Florida’s agricultural landscape. He served as Treasurer of the Florida Peanut Federation, a statewide organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for peanut farmers through education, research, and community outreach. Through his leadership, Donell strengthened the federation’s financial health and broadened its reach within the farming community.

Additionally, Donell served as State Chairman of the USVI Farm Service Agency (FSA), USDA committee for the entire state of Florida. The FSA, a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides vital support for farmers and ranchers through loans, disaster assistance, and conservation programs. As Chairman, Donell was a tireless advocate for fair resource access and program availability, ensuring local farmers received the support necessary to sustain and grow their operations.

In 2022, Donell made history as the first Black farmer in Florida to receive a medical marijuana license-a groundbreaking achievement that reflected his innovative spirit and commitment to expanding opportunities within agriculture.

Known for his big heart, kindness and generosity, Donell was a mentor to many aspiring farmers and a steadfast supporter of local initiatives. In honor of his legacy and dedication to the agricultural industry, the Terry Donell Gwinn Educational Memorial Fund has been established to support the education and development of future agricultural leaders. For more information or to contribute please visit www.gwinneducationalfund.org

Donell was preceded in death by his parents: Robert & Iler Gwinn; brothers: Ted Gwinn and Robert Gwinn, Jr.; sisters: Verna Mae Henry, Ernestine R. Cason Jackson, and Louise Sapp.

He is survived by the love of his life Gigi Simmons Gwinn, brother: Clifford Gwinn (Marvette); five daughters: Juwana Zerman (Frank), Terri McCullum (Marvin), Tamekia Gwinn, Kemoria Cato-Diallo, and Julia Patrice Gwinn; two sons: Sterling Simmons, Nicholas Simmons; mother in law: Gale Simmons, twelve cherished grandchildren; one sweet great-granddaughter; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He will be especially remembered by his special niece Yvonne Wiley (Willie) and loyal friends Walter Fields and Jack Putnal.

The funeral service will be private and limited to family members and close friends only.

A public memorial service to celebrate Donell’s life will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 pm at the UF IFAS Research Center, 8202 County Road 417, Live Oak, FL.

A community celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 12:00 pm at the McAlpin Community Center, 9981 170th Terrace, McAlpin, FL 32062.