Tomsena E. Greene, a Beloved Educator, Community Leader, and Cherished Family Matriarch

Tomsena E. Greene, affectionately known as "Tom," lived a life guided by faith, devoted to her family, and enriched by her passions for decorating and gardening. Born with a natural gift for teaching, Tom dedicated her life to shaping young minds and empowering her students.

Educational and Professional Journey

She was a proud graduate of Central Academy (Old CA), Class of 1949. Her commitment to education continued as she earned an Associate of Arts degree from Edward Waters College in 1951, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Memorial College in 1965. She later achieved her Master of Science degree from Nova University in 1982, a testament to her lifelong dedication to learning and personal growth. Her professional career began in dentistry, working as a dental assistant for the late Dr. William Higgins. In 1957, she earned her certification as a substitute teacher, balancing her early years in education with attending college at night. On August 23, 1965, she accepted her first permanent teaching position, beginning a distinguished career that would span more than three decades. She served faithfully in schools throughout Putnam County and surrounding areas, touching countless lives along the way. Her teaching assignments included:

James A. Long Elementary School – 1965–1966, 1968–1969; Physical Education (Itinerant) – 1967–1968; Moseley Elementary School – 1965–1966, 1969–1992; Beasley Middle School – 1995–1997; Seminole County Schools – 1966–1967

Her service extended beyond the classroom as well. She worked with the Federal Programs Department from 1992–1994 and later at the District Opportunity Center from 1994–1995.

After a remarkable career devoted to educating and uplifting young people, she retired on December 31, 1997. Her legacy lives on in the many students, colleagues, and community members whose lives she enriched through her dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to education.

For 32 years as a permanent teacher, preceded by 8 years as a substitute, Tom poured her heart into education. She found immense joy in teaching 3rd and 6th graders, believing deeply that early lessons provided the strongest foundation for a successful life. Her classrooms were vibrant, stimulating environments, where her exceptional decorating skills transformed learning spaces into visual aids. More profoundly, she instilled in each child a powerful sense of self-worth, assuring them they were "somebody" and capable of achieving anything they set their minds to. Tom also relished teaching physical education, drawing on her own high school basketball achievements to show her students the joy of movement and competition. While her precise attention to detail and firm leadership were sometimes perceived as harsh, the remarkable success of her many former students stands as a testament to her effective and beneficial approach.

Beyond the classroom, Tomsena was a pillar of her community. She was a proud co-founder of the Gamma Xi Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, established at Florida Memorial College on May 2, 1964. Her commitment to service extended to the Order of the Eastern Star, Harry Burney Chapter #202, where she held several leadership positions, and as Daughter Ruler of J. A. Nottage Temple #484.

A devout member of Bethel AME Church, Tomsena enriched her church community through her beautiful singing in the choir and dedicated service on the Stewardess Board. Her artistic flair found another outlet in decorating the church's bulletin boards and enhancing special events.

Tomsena cherished her beloved granddaughter and great-grandchildren sharing an unbreakable bond with each of them. In her leisure, she delighted in wearing colorful outfits, nurturing her beautiful garden filled with vibrant flowers, and relaxing with her favorite cowboy movies.

Preceded in death: Parents Joseph and Hannah Greene. Daughter Andrea Cheryl Greene-Perkins; Sister Blanche (Robert) Peacock; Brothers Joseph and George Greene Sr; Nieces: Denise Greene-Spegal; Yukeeba Poole; Nephews: George Greene Jr; Rodney Williams, Jahme Jones and Samuel "Brickstone" Williams 3/23/26.

Cherishing her memories:

Granddaughter: Ruanda Perkins; Great Grands: Kamiayah, Zaiques and JaiKwon Perkins; Sister: Annette  Greene; Brother:Robert(Juanita) Greene; Nieces: Barbara Ruthledge; Michelle Jackson-Session (Devoted and Faithful Caretaker); Denna Boles; Tammie McCaskill-Valentine; Nephews:Joseph(Sharon)Greene; Ronnie (Agnes) Peacock; Stephen(Mary) Williams;  God Children: Sherman(Tia) Missick and Merissa Missick, A host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.