Ms. Eulila is an inspiration to her community. As an original “Rosie the Riveter,” Eulila worked with sheet metal for Douglas Aircraft during WWII. She has seen changes in civil rights, remembering when families could first eat wherever they wanted, and go wherever they wanted. In her lifetime, she was witnessed 13 Presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, and the first African American President, Barack Obama.
She has served with numerous community organizations for 50+ years, including the City Wide Ushers, YMCA, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. She helped direct a longevity program for Eastern Star and volunteers her evenings as a Foster Grandparent for two and three year olds, who call her “Mama Davis.”
“Helping others keeps you involved and alert,” said Eulila. And that she is. Eulila celebrated her 90th birthday last year. She is an avid exerciser and a health advocate.
Eulila grew up in a family of 9 children – all girls. She married her high school boyfriend, Joseph, and had 6 children. Now her family is made up of 6 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren. She played basketball throughout high school and now has a love for the OKC Thunder. Her daughter says Eulila is their biggest fan. Eulila has attended several games, and would go to more, but says, “It’s just a long way to walk!” After knee replacement surgery a few years ago, she has not driven much.
The family takes vacations every 2 years and Eulila loves to travel. “They take me on trips with them,” Eulila said. “That way they can babysit me.” One year Eulila went to Hawaii with a group from her church. She was described as a daredevil, swimming through the ocean waves. At one point she even lost her glasses, but they were later washed back to shore. Though she has been lots of places, Eulila prefers living in Oklahoma with her small dog, Sophie.