Her father, an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) minister and Howard University divinity school graduate,[3] vigorously supported a thorough education for each of his daughters as well as a steadfast faith in Christianity.

Winona co-founded the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority during her penultimate year at Howard University.

[citation needed] After graduation, Cargile was hired as a high school English teacher in Sedalia, Missouri.

[5] Cargile moved to Jacksonville, Florida, when hired as a social worker the Duval County Welfare Board.

[6] The Jacksonville chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta has a scholarship named after Alexander which is awarded to high school graduates.

[6] In 2018, Lenny Curry, the mayor of Jacksonville, declared June 9, 2018, as Winona Cargile Alexander Memorial Day in honor of her legacy.