Gwendolyn Kissiah Jones

Gwendolyn Kissiah Clemens was born on May 27, 1922, the fourth of seven children in the community of Long Town, Ohio, to James Edward and Cora Myrtle Clemens. She was a direct descendant of James Clemens who was the first freed black man to own property in the State of Ohio. She and her siblings attended the Church and one room schoolhouse he founded in Longtown Ohio. During her adolescence the family moved to Richmond, Indiana. Gwendolyn attended Richmond High School and graduated in June 1940. Growing up in a very loving family, during the Great Depression, instilled character, determination and humility into Gwendolyn's being. She could tell you many awful, awesome, awe inspiring and spiritual stories of the dogged determination of her family through adversity.

In 1946 Gwendolyn moved to Seattle, Washington with her sister Janice whose husband was stationed here. In 1947 she married Herman Jones and to this union, five children were born; Shirley, Kathy, Herman Jr., Clyde and Lynda. 42 years ago Gwendolyn lovingly opened her heart and home to a couple that would become her son and daughter, Fred and Linda Brown. Gwendolyn's greatest joy was raising her family and being "Mom" to many. Gwendolyn raised her children as a single parent for much of their lives. She instilled in her children the same values and determination that her parents had given her. At times she would go 24 hours without sleep just to make sure each of her children knew that she loved them by spending quality time listening to, helping with homework, soothing wounded feelings and making sure each one felt just as special as the next. Each child was her favorite.

In addition to her five children, she was Granny to five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Her love of family was extended to many extended family members

Gwendolyn worked at Boeing for over 30 years and never complained once. She received many honors for her perfect attendance which instilled a work ethic in her children.

Gwendolyn was a lifelong member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Starting at Bethel Long in Greenville, Ohio which her family founded, then of Bethel A.M.E Church in Richmond, Indiana and First A.M.E Seattle after relocating to Seattle. She was active in the Missionary Society, May Circle Chairperson for many years and honored for her work in the Indiana Conference on behalf of Bethel AME Church in Richmond, Indiana

She was one of the original members of the Sunset Social Club and she was the proud member of the "Gradient Twelve" where a good time was always had. Gwendolyn held several positions as a member of the International Training in Communication (Toastmistress).

Gwendolyn opened her home and heart to many, her children's friends became her friends and it was not unusual to come home and find her holding court with lots of laughs. She became the unofficial team mom to many members of the Seattle Sonics and hosted team dinners for the younger players who had no family here but need some good ole home cooking. She was simply known as "Mom".

Aunt Gee as she was affectionately known by her nieces and nephews was always quick with a witty joke, they delighted in making her laugh as much as she delighted in making them laugh. She was the 'fun" Aunt.

Gwendolyn leaves to cherish her memories to her children Shirley, Kathy, Herman Jr (Maryann), Clyde (Felicia) & Lynda; her grandchildren Jayson, Eboni (Louis), Christopher, Nichole and Ashley; Great Grand- children Shamaun, Niara, DeyMarius, Samari, Rae Joyce, Cyrus, Titus, David Jr.; sisters, Juanita Jones (Los Angeles), Janice Burden (Richmond, IN); brother Gerald Maurice Clemens (Richmond); brother and sister in law Clyde and Dolores Jones (Seattle) God-Daughter Patricia Walton. She was affectionately known as Granny to Fred (Tina), Terik and Bryan Brown.

We will never miss her warmth and smile as they will be with us always. Life was so good with her as our Mother. She led by example and we shall follow with much gratitude in our hearts.