Gwendolyn Dean Francis Young fondly known as “Nana” to her grandchildren; “Great Nana to her great grandchildren; “Ma or Shorty” to her children; “Aunty” to her nieces and nephews, “Mother Young” to her Goodwill church family and “Gwennie” to her husband. She started her journey in 1927 born to Geneva Rivers and John Francis in Washington, DC on the 19th day of February.  She was raised by a loving aunt in New York City until high school graduation.  Her younger days were spent in one of her favorite places on the planet “New York”, however, she spent time visiting Washington, DC while in a courtship before marrying Lester L. Young.  Her proudest family moments included having her children. From this union six (6) children were born, Lester Jr., Bernard, Ronald, Christopher (Still Born), David, and Lowell. She spent many years as a stay-at-home Mom until she became a federal government employee.  

Gwen's career accomplishments were acknowledged through many awards earned for her outstanding work performance in the federal government.  Her federal career afforded her the opportunity to work at the Internal Revenue Service, General Accounting Office, Department of Defense, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Office.  She retired as a Budget Analyst.  After her retirement from the government - she worked in the local school system supporting kindergarten classrooms and afterschool tutoring programs;  she loved working with the children at Shadyside Elementary School.  

In addition to her career, she served in various roles at Goodwill Baptist Church to include an Usher, member of the Mother's Board, and a Deaconess.  She enjoyed serving to support the church initiatives and the members. She boldly worshipped the Lord and shared her joy with many along her journey.  Her faith was unwavering and she trusted God with every aspect of her life.   She served, she traveled, she lived, and she loved.

All of her children and husband preceded her in transition from this life. She leaves a host of family members, friends, her daughters in love, Sharonne, Theresa, Paulette, and Sharon; her grandchildren, Enrique, Shanna, Stephanie, Bernard Jr., Ronald Jr., Derrick, Jeremy, and Terrance; her great-grandchildren, Armani, Shilo, Tiana, Zoe, Nia, Erik, Saheed, Kuran, Zariah, Anthony, Jahlil, Taye, Tieone, T’airah, Jayla, and Amelia to name a few.

She leaves a legacy of love, compassion, and faith...

She will be missed but forever in our hearts…

Our Nana - Gigi - Gwennie Dean!

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