After earning her degree from Normal College in Natchitoches, Mrs. Gwen come to Calcasieu Parish to begin her teaching career, first at Gillis, then at Moss Bluff Elementary. Here she met and married the love of her life, Mr. Billy. They were always so proud of being a part of Moss Bluff as it changed from being a small community of few homes and many moss-covered trees to what Moss Bluff is today. They were very active and supportive members of their beloved church, Moss Bluff Baptist Church for over 70 years.
Ms. Gwen and Mr. Billy enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Canada in their RV and loved sharing stories and memories of their travels. Ms. Gwen’s favorite place of all was in Canton, TX as she and Mr. Billy spent many a pleasant weekends there.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Ivy Blake and Ludie Stringer Blake; husband, William L. “Bill” Armistead; sister, Hallie Sims; brother, Joseph D. “Buddy” Blake.
Survivors include her wonderful, caring sister-in-law, Mrs. Laura Armistead Goos, with whom she spent many an enjoyable Sunday lunch and afternoon visiting the Goos home; a host of nieces and nephews, many, many friends (especially Mrs. Kris Fontenot), and a very special awesome lady who has been with Ms. Gwen during the last four years, Sherry Anderson. Thank you, Sherry, for all the things you did for Aunt Gwen to help make her last years enjoyable, comfortable and safe.
Ms. Gwen was the ultimate hostess, no one visited in her home without being served coffee and homemade cookies. She was truly a gracious Southern Lady who will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 24, 2018 from 4pm until 8pm and resume Wednesday at 9am until time of service at 1st Baptist of Moss Bluff. Funeral Service will be Wednesday at 11am at the church. Rev. Steve Bennett will officiate. Burial will follow at Old Ritchie Cemetery. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com
