Gwendolyn Elmira White , born on August 19, 1940, in Due West, South Carolina, to Moses S. Hawthorne and Jervine J.L. Smith, peacefully transitioned to eternal life on October 19, 2024.

Gwendolyn embraced her Christian faith at an early age, dedicating her life to serving God and sharing the love of Jesus. She united in Holy Matrimony twice, first to James Alvin Sims Sr., with whom she shared the joys of family, and later to Ernest White, her steadfast companion in later years.

A dedicated worker, Gwendolyn held various positions, including crossing guard and food service manager for Evanston School System District 65. Her culinary skills were legendary, filling her home with the warm aromas of peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, cakes, pies, and her children's beloved fried chicken and meatloaf. Her meals were not just food; they were expressions of love, warmth, and comfort.

Gwendolyn was also a devoted church member, sharing her beautiful voice in the choir and uplifting spirits through song. Her life was a testament to the power of prayer and the strength of her unshakeable faith.

She is survived by her beloved sister, Betty Jean Fletcher, and her four children: Bridget (Eldridge) Ford, Yvette Sims, and James Alvin Jr. (Tonya) Sims. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Carlotta Sims and her nephew John Scott Fletcher. Gwendolyn leaves behind 13 cherished grandchildren: Paris Stephens, Britain Powell, Israel Powell, Europe James, Isaiah Henry, Rebecca Davis, Elijah Henry, Christopher Sims, Leah Sims, Jasmine Sims, Angelina Sims, and Brandon Sims-White, as well as a host of great-grandchildren, relatives, and friends.

Gwendolyn's legacy of love, strength, and faith will forever resonate in the hearts of those she touched. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will be a blessing to all who knew her.

May she rest in peace.