Mrs. Lena Mufeed Khalil (née Zabaneh), age 68, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. A devoted educator, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of Christ, Lena leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, faithfulness, and unwavering love.

Born on February 28, 1957, in Salt, Jordan, Lena was raised in a home deeply rooted in Christian faith. She was baptized and confirmed at the Church of the Redeemer in Amman, where her father served as organist for an extraordinary 63 years. This spiritual foundation shaped every aspect of Lena's life. After immigrating to the United States, she continued to serve Christ through Episcopalian, Methodist, and Baptist congregations. Her faith was not only central to her identity but also radiated through her actions. She prayed fervently for those around her and exemplified Christ's love and generosity in every interaction.

Lena dedicated 35 years of her life to Special Education at Alden Road Exceptional Student Center in Jacksonville. Her work extended far beyond the classroom walls. For most of her career, she transformed local hotels, restaurants, and retail stores into real-world learning environments. Each day she accompanied students nearing graduation to these job sites to teach them essential job and life skills. Through this innovative approach and her gentle guidance, Lena helped hundreds of children with disabilities gain the confidence and tools needed for independent adulthood.

Those who knew Lena often spoke of her rare ability to connect with students. She offered praise when they succeeded and gentle correction when they struggled. Her guidance of children was filled with warmth and encouragement. The impact she had on her students' lives is immeasurable.

Lena's kindness extended far beyond her professional life. All who visited her during hospice care shared heartfelt stories about how she had touched their lives, whether as a friend offering comfort during difficult times or as a colleague whose generosity lifted others up. Each visitor echoed the same sentiment: Lena was one of the kindest, most loving souls they had ever known.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Mufeed Khalil; sons Michael Khalil (and his wife Heidi) and Ramsey Khalil; grandsons Samuel Khalil and Charles Khalil; sister Muna Kildani (née Zabaneh); and brother Raja Zabaneh. She was preceded in death by her father Benny Zabaneh; mother Lydia Zabaneh (née Debouni); and sister Maha Joury (née Zabaneh).

Lena's life was a testament to faith in action. Her quiet strength uplifted others through love, service, and grace. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness for generations to come.

A Memorial Service will be held on June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Paul's Episcopal Church (5616 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL).

After the service, the burial will be at Arlington Park Cemetery (6920 Lone Star Rd, Jacksonville, FL).

After the burial, we will return to St. Paul's Episcopal Church for repast and reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to classrooms at the Alden Road Exceptional Student Center (donorschoose.org).