Gwendolyn Frances Woods

In Loving Memory of Gwendolyn Francis Morris Woods December 9, 1939 – September 27, 2024, Mrs. Gwendolyn Francis Morris Woods, 84, of Centre, Alabama. Gwendolyn peacefully transitioned from this life on Friday, September 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication that touched all who knew her. Born on December 9, 1939, in Smyrna, Georgia, Gwendolyn was the cherished daughter of the late Walter L. Morris and  Irene Hosea Morris. From an early age, Gwendolyn exhibited a spirit of kindness, a keen intellect, and an unwavering faith in the Lord. These qualities would shape the woman she became and guide her throughout her life. Gwendolyn is survived by her devoted husband of 32 years, Calvin T. Woods, whose love and partnership were her joy and comfort. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, mutual respect, and shared devotion to family and faith. Her sons, Barry Whitener and Rick Whitener, held a special place in her heart, and her grandchildren—Jessica Brown, Blair Whitener, Blake Whitener, Jaxon Headrick, and Rachel Whitener—brought her immense pride and happiness. In addition to her parents, Gwendolyn was preceded in death by Her brother Winton Morris, and her sister, Laverne Harkins, and by her beloved son, Bruce Whitener, whom she now rejoins in eternal peace. Gwendolyn’s life was marked by her deep love for the Lord, a guiding force that influenced every aspect of her journey. As a faithful member of Slackland Baptist Church in Leesburg, Alabama, Gwendolyn found great purpose in her service to the church, her fellowship with the congregation, and her dedication to spreading the message of Christ’s love. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and her commitment to living by Christian principles was evident to all who knew her. Professionally, Gwendolyn was a woman of great skill and diligence. She built a successful career in accounting, where her keen mind, precision, and work ethic earned her the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Though meticulous in her work, it was her integrity and gracious spirit that truly defined her career and left a lasting impact on those she worked with. But it was in the role of wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend that Gwendolyn truly shined. She possessed a quiet strength and a nurturing spirit that provided comfort and wisdom to her loved ones. Whether through a warm smile, a thoughtful gesture, or a heartfelt prayer, Gwendolyn had a way of making those around her feel valued and cared for. Her presence will be profoundly missed, but the love she shared will remain in the hearts of those she touched. Services celebrating Gwendolyn’s remarkable life will be held at the Good Shepherd Funeral Home Chapel, located at 2750 Shorter Avenue, Rome, Georgia, 30165. Visitation will take place on Monday, September 30, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, allowing friends and family to gather in remembrance and fellowship. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with Pastor David Bankston officiating. Gwendolyn will be laid to rest at Oaknoll Memorial Gardens immediately after the service, where her loved ones will gather to say their final goodbyes.  Jaxon Headrick, her beloved  Great grandson, will serve as a pallbearer, honoring her life and legacy. The family extends their deepest gratitude to Parnick Jennings Good Shepherd Funeral Home for their care and assistance in these arrangements. Though Gwendolyn is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in the lives she touched. Her faith, love, and grace are woven into the fabric of our memories, and we take comfort in knowing that she now rests in the arms of the Lord she so deeply loved.

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