Gwendolen D. Berry's Obituary
Pastor Gwendolen Delores Berry transitioned home on August 20, 2022. Often referred to as Gwen, she was the oldest child of Geneva Mathews and Willie Mathews (both deceased). She was born October 12, 1961, in Dade City, Florida. After graduating from Pasco High School, Gwen attended and graduated from Central Florida Community College with an Associate Degree in Commercial Arts. She furthered her studies at Florida State University, Barry University, and the University of San Diego where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work with a certification in Paralegal services.
Gwen was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She literally left this world leaving a trail of love, blessings, and friendship across the United States and recently made her home in Melbourne, Florida. Throughout her professional career, she filled many roles as a Teacher and Academic Mentor for students in grades K-12, Social Worker, Board Member of The Family Center of Hope Inc., Coach of the Women's JPM Basketball Team in the Christ-Centered Basketball Association, and Community Volunteer as an Activity Coordinator for residents at the Mennowood Retirement Community.
On May 2, 2002, Pastor Gwen became an ordained minister and was passionate about helping others grow in their Christian Faith. She would then become co-founder of Abiding Truth Ministries in Newport News, VA, and later a co-host on the nationally broadcasted show "Abiding in the Kingdom" on Gospel Impact Radio station. Some of her favorite pastimes include studying and sharing Biblical scriptures, artistic painting, cooking, traveling, playing basketball and volleyball, and spending time at the beach with family. The impact of her gentleness and warmhearted nature was felt by the multitudes of people she met in her lifetime.
Gwen's memory will be graciously upheld by her husband Pastor Dwayne Berry; daughter, Dr. Jasmine Berry; son, Jaymes Berry (wife, Katrina); Grandchildren, Jai Berry, Kasen Berry; Sisters, Deina Penix (Alvin), Santrissa Pitts (Carlos), and Sharm Watson (Joe); Brothers, David Mathews (Demetria) and Ronnell Mathews (Erica); Nieces, Dominique Mathews, Carissa Pitts, Cayla Pitts, Ciara Pitts; Nephews, Alvin Penix Jr. (Megan), Eric Mathews, Ethan Mathews, Eric Barnhill Jr., Joe Watson, IV, Jace Watson, and Jordan Watson; and a host of uncles, aunts, in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many other endearing friends.
Previously departed loved ones include Gwen's grandmother Eva Day and her youngest sister Starshemah Barnhill.
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