Gwendolyn Lanail Perry

In his classic novel, Herman Melville describes death as “a quick, chaotic bundling of a man into eternity.” That was exactly what happened last week, quick and chaotic, on October 23, 2026, when Gwen passed away. It was her last day on earth and her first day in eternity. On that day, she was reunited with her beloved mother, grandson and countless other relatives. No more pain, no more tears.

Gwen Perry was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose life was defined by her love for family, her generous spirit, her strength, and her ability to bring laughter and warmth to those around her. Known affectionately by the nickname “Butterbean,” Gwen leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

Gwen graduated from Artesia High School in 1983. Throughout her life, she embraced the roles that meant the most to her: devoted wife, loving mother, daughter, cherished sister, and proud grandmother. She was a breast cancer survivor whose courage and perseverance reflected the strength of her character. Even when life presented difficult challenges, Gwen continued to love deeply and give generously to those around her.

Gwen met the love of her life, John Perry, at the Roll Arena in 1979. Their relationship grew into a lifelong bond, and they were married on September 24, 1983. Gwen was John's wife, companion, and best friend. Their years together created a lifetime of shared memories, blessings, and love that will remain a treasured part of her family's story.

Above all else, Gwen's family was her world. Although she had always been close to her sisters, their bond grew even stronger after their mother passed. Gwen cherished their time together and especially enjoyed their "retail therapy" outings. Her children and grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she treasured the time they spent together. She was the kind of mother whose love extended beyond words, offering comfort, encouragement, laughter, and a place where her family could always feel loved. Her family remembers her as a second mom to many, someone whose heart had room for more people than just those connected to her by blood.

Gwen had a remarkable ability to make people feel special. She was compassionate, humble, kind, modest, and beautiful inside and out. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved being silly, and could make others laugh even when circumstances were difficult. Her hugs had a way of healing hearts, and her generosity seemed to know no limits. She would give someone her last dollar if she thought they needed it, often putting the needs of others ahead of her own.

Her home reflected the love she carried in her heart. Gwen enjoyed gardening, crafting, junking, and decorating. She had a special talent for making a house feel like a home, and she loved sharing that gift with her family. She took pride in creating beautiful, welcoming spaces and helping others make their homes special, too. Her creativity, resourcefulness, and eye for beauty were just a few of the many qualities that made her unique.

Gwen also enjoyed spending time with friends, meeting new people, going to town, fishing, junking, playing cards, and playing games. To her, friendship was an extension of family. The people she loved were never simply acquaintances; they became part of her life and her heart. Her beloved Sheltie, Cotton, her gentle giant Mastiff, Moe and her high energy Boxer, Max, were another important parts of her world. Always watchful and protective, these three special canines brought companionship and joy to her days.

Those who knew Gwen will remember her for her strength, her wit, her generous heart, and the way she continued to give even when she had little left to give. She was smart, strong-minded, and often certain of her opinions, but beneath that spirited personality was a woman whose love for others was immeasurable. She could be playful and outspoken, yet she was also gentle, compassionate, and deeply devoted to the people she held dear.

Gwen's family was blessed by the love she gave so freely. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter brought joy, and her example taught those around her the importance of kindness, generosity, and putting love into action. The memories she created, the homes she helped make beautiful, the laughter she shared, and the lives she touched will continue to be treasured for generations.

Gwen is survived by her devoted husband, John Perry, of Odessa, Texas; her children, Nikki Perry and husband Qamar Chohan, Michael Perry and his wife, Kayla, and Chelsea Perry; her grandchildren, Daniel Chohan, and Adalynn Perry Ava Perry, Maverick Perry, ; her father, Bill Wallace and wife Pat; her sisters, Jessica Reid and husband Gerald, Rachel Terry and husband Russell, and Lindy Contreras and husband Franco; brother, Benny Wallace and his wife, Rhonda; brother-in-law, Dean Perry and wife Terry; sister-in-law, Cecilia Tandy and husband Gary; and numerous extended family members and dear friends who loved her as their own.

She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Nayab Chohan; her mother, Sharon Wallace; her mother-in-law, Wanda Perry; and her father-in-law, Bill Perry.

Though Gwen's family must now learn to navigate life without her physical presence, the love she gave will never disappear. It lives on in the lessons she taught, the laughter she inspired, the memories she created, and the generations who will continue to carry her spirit forward.

Gwen's life was a beautiful reminder that even when circumstances are hard, love can remain strong, kindness can make a difference, and a generous heart can leave a lasting mark on the world. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Her life was a gift, her love was a blessing, and her memory will remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

The family will receive friends for visitation from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, October 28th and Thursday, October 29th at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home, 601 North Alleghaney Avenue, Odessa.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 30th at Leaday Baptist Church, FM 2134, Voss, TX followed by a graveside committal at Leaday Cemetery.