Gwendolyn Steele's Obituary
Gwendolyn Bryan Steele, 90, of Memphis, TN, died March 2, 2015. Her final days were spent surrounded by friends and family.Mrs. Steele was born on October 29, 1924 in Downsville, LA. She was preceded in death by sisters Linda Reeves and Fannie Thomisee; Brothers Russell Bryan, Delton (Shorty) Bryan, Bobby Bryan; husband of 40 years, Harry Eugene Steele.Gwen was known for her talent as a seamstress and was sought out by many in the Memphis area for expert alterations. She taught sewing classes at Genie Fabrics and the Singer Sewing Center in Memphis. Over the years she has extended her family in the Memphis area through her talents. She was active in this area up until her 90th year, amazing all those who were privileged to know her and observe her work.Mrs. Steele was an avid sports fan and keen gardener, known for keeping her flowers and yard area in tip-top shape through her final year. She was insistent upon mowing her own lawn and keeping up with her flower beds. Working in her yard, sitting in her swing, being close to nature was a hobby and pastime that made her most happy.Formerly a long-time member of Jackson Avenue Church of Christ, Gwen was most recently an active member of Highland Street Church and White Station Church of Christ. She is known and loved by many church members in the Memphis area for her contributions and support of work for those less fortunate. She contributed and work many hours at the HopeWorks in Memphis.Mrs. Steele is survived by her 6 children: Charles Steele of Joelton, TN; Julia Thacker of Dallas, TX; Paul Steele of Cleveland, TN; Barbara Perkins of Atlanta, GA; Susan Steele of Memphis, TN; and David Steele of Cullman, AL.Gwen is survived by her sisters Ethel Roubion and Thelma (Sissy) Creech, both of Downsville, LA; brother Kenney Bryan of Downsville, LA; and brother, Otis Bryan of Choteau, MT.Also surviving Mrs. Steele are 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 8 granddogs.The family will receive friends 10 a.m. until the service time at 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 6, 2015 at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to www.whyhopeworks.org or www.stjude.org
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