Gwendolyn Mae Bagley, 89, of Midland, died Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011. She was born Oct. 8, 1922, at the family home in Wilson, MI (U.P.), daughter of the late H. Roy and Lea (Bellefevil) Bagley.

Gwendolyn was a graduate of Powers-Spalding High School and a graduate of Northern Michigan Teachers College (NMU) with a bachelor of science degree, majoring in physical education. She also did additional graduate work at the University of Colorado, at Boulder.

Gwendolyn was a member of Zion Episcopal Church in Wilson, and Holy Family Episcopal Church in Midland. She was a member of the NMU Alumni Association, a life member of the NEA, MEA, MARSP, and the Order of the Eastern Stars (OES) with dual membership in Midland Chapter 121 and Norway Chapter 251. Gwendolyn was on the board of directors and past president of Big Sisters, Inc. of Midland. She was a 1967 recipient of the Gerstacker Award for Excellence in Teaching at the Secondary Level. She taught 42 years in the public schools of Michigan, two years in Marquette and 40 years in Midland, retiring in 1986.

In addition to her parents, Gwendolyn was preceded in death by her brother, Moyles. Survivors include several Bagley and Bellefevil cousins and long time friend, Carolyn Fretz and her loving family.

Funeral services will take place 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011, from the Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 W. Wheeler St. The Rev. Rayford Ray, Bishop of the Northern Michigan Episcopal Diocese, will officiate, with burial in Wilson Cemetery, Wilson. Gwendolyn's family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 12 p.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Midland Area Community Foundation, Gwendolyn M. Bagley Fund, or a charity of your choice in Gwendolyn's memory.