Obituaries
Gwendolyn Anita Partee Washington Jones
February 17, 1953 – November 30, 2023
On November 30, 2023, Gwendolyn "Gwen" Anita Partee Washington Jones, aged 70, concluded her triumphant journey through life at Methodist Germantown Hospital, leaving a legacy rich in unwavering love and boundless adventure. After marrying her first husband, Tony Washington, and traveling to far-flung places like North Dakota and the Philippines under the aegis of the military, she returned to her Memphis roots. Finding love and hope again, the widowed Gwen and Dr. Wesley Jones married. Their lives were filled with friendship, laughter, and grand experiences for thirty-six years.
As a South Side High School graduate, she was a proud “Southside Scrapper” and was continuously involved in various alumni activities over the years. She earned her Associate's Degree in healthcare and dedicated her life to serving others within the Methodist Hospital System. Gwen's dedication and skill were evident in her long and successful career as an office manager at Tri-State Gastroenterology. Her tenure here was marked not just by her professional competence but also by the profound impact she had on her colleagues and clients. Gwen's approach to her work was characterized by meticulous attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and a deeply caring attitude toward everyone she interacted with. Her retirement from Tri-State GI was the culmination of a successful career and the closing of a chapter where she left an indelible mark on the lives of those she worked with.
Three essential passions gracefully anchored Gwen's life: her dedicated devotion to God and community service, her heartfelt commitment to family, and her genuine enjoyment of global adventures. Whether it was a weekend getaway in New York City or a majestic Mediterranean cruise, Gwen's adventurous spirit soared without limits. She found joy in the vibrant cultures of Asia, Russia, and Australia, and the luxury of Transatlantic journeys aboard the Queen Elizabeth II. Her travels included explorations of the historic treasures of Paris and London and an iconic flight returning stateside on the swift wings of the Concorde. Her passion for exploration was matched only by her love of shopping, a pastime she indulged in with glee.
Gwen's life was deeply enriched by the enduring friendships she cultivated. Known for her open heart, Gwen had the unique ability to form lasting bonds with almost everyone she met. Her ability to listen, empathize, and offer wise counsel made her a cherished confidante and beloved friend. Her presence was comforting, and her generosity knew no bounds. Gwen's friends, spanning across various stages of her life and different corners of the world, remember her as a pillar of strength, a source of unconditional love, and a beacon of joy and positivity.
As Gwen touched countless lives, her love of God and service emanated through her commitments, just as her passion for adventure did through her extensive travels. Linked in friendship and service For over thirty years, as a charter member of the River City Links, Incorporated, Gwen served in many capacities, including Sergeant at Arms, Archivist, Program Chair, and on her beloved Hostess Committee. She was also involved in the Bluff City Medical Auxiliary, serving as President, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, and the Region III Vice President on the national level. She served faithfully as a thirty-year steward on the usher board at Middle Baptist Church in Whitehaven.
Gwen will be remembered for her zeal, zest for life, and long-standing commitment to scholarship, competence, and compassion. She will forever be memorialized for her extraordinary pride in her endeavors. She will be remembered for the countless young people she loved who have become amazing contributing members of society. But the proudest memories for those who knew her best will be her unyielding commitment to the Lord and her boundless love for her family. Her heart never strayed from the joyous narratives of her children’s lives and their companions, often shared through treasured photographs. And…we shall never forget her love for Cody.
Gwen is lovingly remembered by her husband, Dr. Wesley Jones; her children, Wesley Jones Jr. (Kimberly) Houston, TX, Sean Washington (Stacy) Woodbridge, VA, Kimberly Jones Lee (Ernesto) Fort Lauderdale, FL, Corey Washington (Jennifer) Atlanta, GA, and Patrick Washington (Sandrila) Atlanta, GA; and her cherished grandchildren, Joshua, Wesley, Sydney, Shelby, Jordan, Madison, Caesar, Connor, and Waverly. Her siblings, Lavern, Terrell, and Tina, stand among a host of relatives and friends who mourn her departure while celebrating the joy she brought to life.
Gwen now rests peacefully with her parents Lavorn and Hazel Partee; and siblings Barbara, Joyce, Trina, and Randy.
In Gwen's memory, and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the United Negro College Fund, reflecting her lifetime of caregiving and community service.
Visitation Friday, December 8, 2023 from 4-7 p.m. at Serenity Columbarium Chapel, 1626 Sycamore View Road, Memphis, TN 38134. Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at Middle Baptist Church, 801 Whitehaven Lane, Memphis, TN 38116. Entombment at Serenity Columbarium and Memorial Garden. Serenity Funeral Home, Tel. (901) 379-0861.
Entombment: Crypt 9, Level C, No. 2
Previous Events
Visitation
8
Dec
1626 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
Visitation
9
Dec
801 Whitehaven Lane
Memphis , TN 38116
Service
9
Dec
801 Whitehaven Lane
Memphis , TN 38116
Entombment
9
Dec
1662 Sycamore View Rd.
Memphis , TN 38134
Repast
9
Dec
1648 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
Cemetery Details
Location
1662 Sycamore View Rd.
Memphis , TN 38134
