Gwendolyn Reed

It's always nice to meet good people and gain a friendship that ends to soon. They always remain in our hearts.

What a treat when I met Mrs. Gwen thru The Friends of Negro Spiritual Events always a beautiful smile and getting to meet others Especially her Sister Ms. Ivey who I saw assist her.

Gwen and I became good friends working together on the Advisory Council of the Oakland Museum of California many years ago. Gwen brought light wherever she went. I loved her dearly; she will always have a special place in my memory and my heart.

I initially met Gwen during the mid-70´s when I was Director of the Black Women´s Unit at the University YWCA in Berkeley. We convened weekly support circles and events, one of which was Kuumba-Imani, at which Gwen displayed her artwork! We kept in touch over the years... I usually saw her at the Berkeley Juneteenth Festivals, Art of the African Diaspora and Satellite events, plus a few memorials. I admired her artistic talent and dedication, cherished our friendship and truly miss her...

I remember Mrs. Reed coming into Tuesday morning store in Berkeley, always shopping for craft and painting items so she could make her projects. She was a lovable, beautiful woman always had a smile and something nice to tell me. I remember her always saying keep up the good job you´ll become a great great manager one day. The store has been closed since 2016 but I still remember you and always well rest in peace your friend Nena .

I was a neighbor of Gwen and Marva at Savo Island for many years. I was sad to hear of her illness and passing. Please accept condolences from Brenda Harrison and the family: Jennifer, Tira and Nigel.

Gwendolyn was an outgoing creative force and light, a soft-spoken and persistent advocate for seniors, artists, and Black people in general. She had an affinity for remembering and recalling names and faces, seemingly never forgetting anyone she had met. She was a life-long learner who chose reading as her main hobby; becoming a treasure trove of resources and information which she shared willingly with anyone interested. Many people in the art community, and beyond, knew and loved her,...