Guestava Watson Dabbs

Guestava “Gus”, attended Mooretown Elementary , Central Jr High and graduated from Booker T. Washington HS in 1958. While in high school she participated in the school choir, home economics (sewing & cooking) and the drama club.

“Gus” began a long career at AT&T in 1965 and worked until the plant closure in 2000. Her various jobs during her 35 year tenure included Ringer assembly line, machine operator, process checker, layout operator and computer technician.

Her community involvement started with the Northwest La Food Program in 2001 and continued thru 2008. Ms. Dabbs also operated the pantry for Faith United Methodist Church under the leadership of Rev. Willie Jackson, Jr. She was also a member of the Airport Park Community Choir, where she enjoyed singing, attending special events and giving her time and service to the less fortunate.

Ms. Dabbs was a faithful member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church where she served as a Communion Stewardess.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Bessie Watson, and husband, William “Bill” Dabbs. She leaves behind her most cherished achievement, son, Gerald and daughter, Octavia, who she raised to be independent, respectful, spiritual members of the community. She was the grandmother of seven and great grandmother of twelve. She’ll be missed by many family members and friends.

A Visitation for "Gus" will be held Friday, December 29, 2023 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1001 Pierre Ave., Shreveport, Louisiana 71103. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 11:00 am, with Rev. James Graham officiating. She will be laid to rest at Centuries Memorial Park, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, Louisiana 71108.

In lieu of flowers, think about giving your time to assist at the various food pantries and shelters in the city. If you don’t have time to do that, just remember your neighbor down the street who may be in need of a meal sometimes, as she often did.