Gwendolyn McLawhorn Pullen, 87, of Norfolk passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Gwen was born on November 30, 1936, in New Bern, North Carolina to Hodges and Esther Lee McLawhorn. She was raised in Ayden, North Carolina, and graduated from Ayden High School where she played on the basketball team. Upon completion of high school, she attended East Carolina College. Later she moved to Norfolk and attended Norfolk Business College earning an Associate’s degree. While there, she met the love of her life, George Pullen. They were happily married for 55 years.
Gwen worked for several companies after completing college including Southern Bank of Norfolk, NRHA, Esso Oil, Sinclair Oil Company, and Miller Oil Co.
Gwen was a long-time member of Norview United Methodist Church and served on many committees including worship committee, administrative board, SBRC and bereavement committee. She was also a member of the United Methodist Women and the Elizabeth River Women’s Club where she served as treasurer. Most importantly, she was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to all who had the joy of knowing her in her wonderful 87 years of life. She was affectionately known as “Mema” to her family and loved ones.
Gwen loved watching the Norfolk Tides play at Harbor Park with George and her grandchildren. She also loved watching the NCAA basketball tournament, especially the women. Gwen was an avid Bridge player, playing in many bridge clubs. Her favorite vacations were summer trips to the beach with her family.
Gwen was predeceased by her parents, her husband, George Pullen and a brother, Billy Powell McLawhorn. She is survived by her daughter, Lee Anne Rapp (Robert), and son, Phil Pullen (Tina); grandchildren, Brian Rapp (Mary), Amanda Duncan, Kevin Rapp (Julie), Grace Pullen, Leslie Pullen, and Phillip Pullen (Madge); great grandchildren, Troy, Finn and Knox Duncan, and Jodie Rapp; sister-in-law, Joyce McLawhorn, and brother-in-law, Maynard Blask; and large extended family whom she loved dearly.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 6:00 – 8:00 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, Va. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at Norview United Methodist Church, 1112 Norview Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Norview United Methodist Church. Please offer your fondest condolences to the family at www.woodlawnnorfolk.com.
