Gwendolyn Delores Seals

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Delores Seals, 95, formerly of Iola, Kansas, entered eternal rest at home on August 27, 2025. She peacefully transitioned to her “Heavenly Home” at her residence in Arlington, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents Glenn F. and Mary E. Handley, three siblings Beverly A. Handley Rogers, Adrienne S. Handley, Glenn S. Handley, her son Gregory L. Seals, grandson Keith Seals, and life partner Primalton H. Peterson, Sr. She is survived by her three sons Stanley K. Seals (Kimberly) of Kansas City, Missouri, Shawn T. Seals, Sr. of Grandview, Missouri, Primalton H. Peterson, Jr. of Independence, Missouri, and three daughters, DeAun R. Seals Rimmer of Kansas City, Missouri, Dana R. Allen of Grandview, Missouri, and Dawn R. Seals of Arlington, Texas.

Gwen was born on February 23, 1930, and oldest daughter to Glenn F. and Mary E. Handley in Iola, Kansas. She attended the Iola Public Schools and graduated from Iola High School in 1948. She participated in sports and took piano lessons. Gwen was a member of Ward Chapel A.M.E. Church of Iola, Kansas. Gwen continued her worship at Bethel A.M.E Church in Kansas City, Missouri and had been a lifelong resident in the Kansas City and Lee’s Summit, Missouri area.

She found great joy in the things she loved most throughout her life. She enjoyed fishing, sewing, baking, gardening, and cooking, often experimenting with a wide variety of unique spices. A true foodie, she delighted in trying new cuisines and savoring a good glass of wine. She was also a member in a wine club. Her treasured collection of recipes and cookbooks reflected her passion for the kitchen, and she especially loved baking for family and friends during the holidays. Music was another one of her joys, with smooth jazz being a favorite alongside many other genres she appreciated. An avid reader, she often finished two to three books a week. Gwen cherished family gatherings, where there was always an abundance of food, dancing, laughter, and love. Her life was rich, full, and eventful, leaving behind memories that will forever be celebrated by those who knew and loved her.

Gwen dedicated 37 years of her life as the Assistant Administrator of Operation, for the Detention Facility at the Juvenile Justice Center, in Kansas City, Missouri. In this role, she served with unwavering commitment, guiding staff and advocating for fairness, compassion, and structure within the justice system. Her deep understanding of challenges facing youth in crisis led to her being sought out by the Kansas City Star on the causes of delinquency in boys and girls. Through her work, she not only help shape programs but also touched countless lives, offering wisdom, accountability, and hope in her care. Her legacy of service stands as a testament to her dedication to justice, community, family connection, and the well-being of future generations.

After retiring, Gwen faced the challenge of visual impairment, yet she remained remarkably independent and determined. She found renewed purpose in volunteering at the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI), in Kansas City, Missouri, where she lovingly assisted young children between the ages of 3 and 6. For 15 years, she devoted her time and energy to supporting these children, guiding them with patience, compassion, and understanding. During her service, she had the privilege of working alongside of remarkable teachers, teacher assistances, and volunteers whose dedication inspired her deeply. In 2000, her commitment and impact were honored when she was recognized as a finalist, with Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI) for the Kansas City Chiefs NFL Community Quarterback Award founded by Carl Peterson, which celebrates individuals who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and strong commitment to bettering their community. Her time at the center brought her great joy and fulfillment, allowing her to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of other even during her retirement.

She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by her family, extended family in Texas, friends, and all whose lives she touched with her warm heart, vibrant spirit, and quick wit. Her passion for living and her gift for embracing others with love and kindness will remain a cherished memory in the hearts of many. Gwen leaves to cherish her memory; her 18 grandchildren: Marquez L. Rimmer of Nevada, Missouri, LaTanya Mansaw (Roderick) of Prosper, Sherron R. Stacker (Anthony) of St. Joseph, Missouri, Damon Harrell of Abilene, Texas, Jonathan (John) A. Seals (Hailynn) of San Antonia, Texas, James A. Seals of Hallandale Beach, Florida, Catherine Seals (Aisha) of Wichita, Kansas, Jehan N. Harrell of Rowlett, Texas, Chanel Finnikov (Alek) of Baltic S. Dakota, Tara L. Seals of Washington, D.C, Britany R. High of Arlington, Texas, Justin K. Seals (Lauren) of Leawood, Kansas, Emanuel Peterson of Mississippi, Shawn T. Seals, Jr. (Karen) of Kansas City, Missouri, Primalton H. Peterson, I. of Cameron, Missouri, Derrell Peterson of St. Joseph, Missouri, Josephine Peterson of Independence, Missouri, daughter in-laws, Dotsy Seals of Wichita, Kansas, Judy Seals of North Kansas City, Missouri, Linda Seals of Kansas City, Missouri, 37 amazing great grandchildren, and 19 awesome great-great grandchildren, great nephews, great nieces, and a host of friends, including: Delores Simms, Mozella Carter, Jesse Jones, Ab Tehrani, Penny and Jim Tate, the Owens and Williams Family.