Tributes

Gwendolyn Shanae McNeal was born in Pasadena, CA on July 7, 1970 and passed on September 24, 2017. Her parents are Richard and Amanda Johnson. She accepted Christ and was baptized at the age of 7 at St. Stephens Missionary Baptist Church of La Puente, CA. She was active in the church; sang in the choir; and part of the junior mission. She had a love for music taking 8 years of piano and occasionally would sing solos during holiday events and special programs. Gwen graduated from Workman High School in La Puente, CA in 1988 and worked for LA Times and Broadway Department store before leaving to study Business at Grambling State University in 1990 and from their union came three strong, kind, and beautiful children; Briana Faye (27), Mark Eric, Jr. (22) and Amber Lynce (20), Gwen later welcomed Thor, her cherished canine companion, to the family. Gwen was a caring and loving soul throughout her life. She had a nurturing loyal spirit, compassionate for all around her, bother family and friends. Even in youth, Gwen would teach her brothers how to drive and survive the world. She loved to knit, read anything on Oprah’s reading list, attend Rap/R&B concerts and comedy shows. But most of all, her joy, came from watching her children excel in school and extra curricular activities such as bank and sports. She was very proud of her children’s nurturing spirit and the friendships they developed over the years. Gwen had an infectious sense of humor, often posting jokes, pictures, and videos on special media bringing a smile to all. Gwen leaves her husband Mark and their children; Briana, Mark, Jr, and Amber to carry on in her legacy. Gwen also leaves behind her parents, Richard Sr. and Amanda; brothers, Richard Jr. and Eric; parents-in-law; Charles and Margaret; and sisters-in-law Cheryl and Kaleina. Gwen touched the lives of numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and those fortunate to have her as a “friend”. Gwen was a loving wife of 27 years, caring mother; kind sister; and a phenomenal friend who will be dearly missed and loved in the hearts of all that knew her. Those of us so fortunate to know her, were drawn to her by her infectious smile and witty character. Her love of life, her smile, and positivity was remarkable and lives on in all of us!

Tributes

Gwendolyn Shanae McNeal

July 7, 1970 - September 24, 2017