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Thomas Gunnings Obituary
Dr. Gunnings, son of Garfield and Marie Gunnings of Gastonia, was born on Feb. 8, 1935. He received his B.A. degree in edu-cation in 1958 from Winston-Salem Teachers College in Winston-Salem, his M.Ed. degree in guidance and psychology from Oregon State University in 1967 and his Ph.D. degree in counseling psychology from the University of Oregon in 1969.
Dr. Gunnings leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 yrs. Dr. Barbara Byrd Gunnings, his daughter Dr. Sonya Gunnings-Moton Husband (Delbert), beloved grandson Taylor, his sisters Gerry Stroman (Willie), Viola Reid (Gene), brother Noverl (Sara), and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, community members and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his parents, Garfield and Marie, his brothers Willie and Robert, and sister Ann.
Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at Friendship Baptist Church, 2912 Pleasant Grove Rd., Lans-ing, MI 48910. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 - 11:30 AM. Memorial services will be held at 11:30 AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be provided to The Black Child & Family Institute (BCFI) 835 W. Gene-see, Lansing, Michigan 48915.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Gunnings
Ann King
June 1, 2025
I Love You Dr Gunnings. Thank God for You
Irma Cuellar
August 16, 2024
A great counselor. Irma Cuellar, member of American Counselor Association.
Sandra Philpott-Burke
August 16, 2022
Barbara, Sonia and family it is with fond memories of Dr. Gunnings that I share with you thoughts of a friend and mentor who has been and still is missed. The art of negotiating was willingly shared by him. We lost a friend.
Angela E. Grace
September 19, 2010
He was my employer but more importantly, he was my teacher & my mentor. His passing cannot extinguish his light.
Angela Pruitt
September 9, 2010
I was saddened to hear about the loss of Dr. Gunnings and still it is unbelievable he was a wonderfully beautiful person, who is missed dearly for his positive attitude, strong convictions and tiring dedication to his profession, family and the community. Your family have remained in my prayers since hearing the news. God bless you & keep all of the Gunnings Family Always!
Bill and Sandra Burke
September 2, 2010
Gunnings Family,
We share your loss. Dr. Gunnings was a very special friend and mentor whose presence and wise counsel will forever be missed. May God's love give you strength,comfort and peace.
Colleen Grady
August 30, 2010
It is with much sadness Raleigh & I contribute to this guestbook - the loss of Dr. Gunnings has touched so many hearts. We are good friends of his sister Gerry & her husband Willie and were fortunate enough to meet, know and spend time with Thomas & Barbara. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in hopes that some peace falls over them as they begin to understand Gods plan for life without Thomas. Take care ... Colleen & Ralee
sandra sydnor-bousso
August 30, 2010
I worked for Dr. Gunnings in his medical practice as a student receptionist during my academic career at MSU in 1977 and '78. I was an engineering undergraduate major, and a minority (female & black).
Dr. Gunnings was an inspiration and support to many of us during those turbulent years- a father away from home. He will be missed by many, but his legacy will never be forgotten!
Dr. Sandra Sydnor-Bousso (MSU'79)
August 30, 2010
My deepest sympathies to the family of Dr. Tom Gunnings. There are no words sufficient to mitigate the loss experienced by Barbara, Sonya, and all his family members. Just know that we all care and share the burden of your loss. When it is too heavy to carry, let us, for we are here to bear witness to the tremendous gift from God we have all experienced.
Marcellette Gailliard-Gay (Williams)
MSU, '68, '70, '81
Professor of English and Secretary of the Board of Trustees Emeritus
Donald Ensley
August 29, 2010
Thank God for Tom Gunnings. His family cared for me and my family (Ramona and Don) during the career developing days at MSU. Tom you and your family did so much for persons in this world, we will be forever honored. We will see you by-and by. We love you, Barbara and Sonya). Your "trailblazing/leadership" will continue and your "spirit" will live forever.
The ensleys (Ramona, Akilah and Don)
Willie Stroman
August 28, 2010
We all hate to say good bye to Dr. Thomas Gunnings this wonderful leader /trailblazer and visonary, just to name a few words to describe my Brother-n-Law and best friend. During his Eulogy, it was noted that he knew who he was and growing up in Gastonia, NC got him started. Those valuable traits and characteristics molded him to being the Great Man that he was in helping so many around the world. He will be missed by his lovely wife and daughter (Barbara and Sonya) along with his grandson Taylor that he adored so much. I know my wife Gerry will miss him just as much as everyone and more due to the special brother-sister bond they possessed. I know God will continue to bless the family during this challenging time. We will truly miss him and I know he opened the door for so many.
Dr.Eugene & Vermelle J. Matthews
August 27, 2010
Barber and members of the Gunning family when I received the sad news of the passing of "Stick" it was such a shock. We had a good time visiting at our last high school reunion. I feel that the entire Highland High School family are saden by his passing. Please know that I along with Vermelle send our most heart felt prayers to you and your family.
My God continue to bless you in a very special way.
Jeremiah whittington
August 26, 2010
My Mentor with Dr Joseph Mcmillan, assisted me in Admission and graduation from MSU College of Human Medicine with the assurance that this was my destiny. They cleared the cobwebs that sought to befuddle my mind when I needed it most. they helped me transition to another/higher life in which I could help people in the medical profession. What a team...Thank You.......Thank You....Jeremiah Whittington MD FACOG '79
Loretta Starr-Bolden
August 26, 2010
The Gunnings Family, Barbara and Sonia; Brother-in-law/Uncle Thomas you are our hero. We miss you so much. We will remember your bravery and your love, that caring wise and watchful eye which now peers at us from above. We knew the man you became, the brother-in-law/uncle who we adore; the leader of a family who gave us more and more.
Through all the important moments you made sure to be there. You took the place of my father, your brother (Willie Gunnings), since he passed when I was 2 years old. You and I share the same birth month and I am so glad I sent you a cake last year, you said it was a wonderful surprise and that I was a great baker like my grandmothers.
Surrounded in Admiration and Love, we remember that caring wise and watchful eye that now peers at us from above.
Our brother-in-law/uncle, a best friend who will always be in our hearts till the day we join you in heaven.
Juanita Gunnings sister-in-law, Delbert and Loretta Starr Bolden, Nadine and Preston Starr and Precious and Preston Starr Jr. (Gastonia, NC and Victorville, CA)
Kim Gardner-Sapp
August 26, 2010
Dr. Gunnings, Dr. Gunnings-Moton and family,
I would like to express my sincere sympathy to you as a family. I remember Dr. Gunnings when my parents were in graduate school at MSU and in the years they participated in ABPsy. He was a towering figure to a short little girl like me but he was also so kind. He always took the time to speak to my brother and me whenever we saw him. Many years ago I lost my dad so I understand your grief and empathize completely. I will remember him as one the awesome group of men who guided my dad (Dr. William E. Gardner, Jr.), his colleagues, Dr. Willie S. Williams, Dr. Robert Williams, Dr. James Goodman and others. These men were (are) the pillars of modern Black Psychology. We all must keep Dr. Gunnings and his amazing body of work and experience fresh in our memories. He forged the path for generations social scientists to come.
August 25, 2010
Barbara, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of the great loss of your beloved husband. May God grant you peace and strength in the days to come and always know that we are holding you close in our hearts. May the precious memories of a wonderful life shared with your loved one bring you much comfort.
We love you,
Your classmates, Highland High School
Class of 1956, Gastonia, NC
Paula Humphries`
August 25, 2010
To the family of Dr.Gunnings, My deepest sympathy and condolences. Dr.Gunnings was my friend and mentor when I lived in Lansing. He was always so encouraging and supportive of my legal career. Many thanks to him and may he rest in peace.
Judge Paula G. Humphries,
36th District Court, Detroit
August 25, 2010
Barbara, Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your husband (my friend always). May God give you comfort and peace at this time. I shall continue to keep you and your family in my prayers.May the peace of God be with you always.Love you. Willena M. Reeves.( Charlotte, NC)
August 25, 2010
To The Gunnings Family,
I pray that God will confort you in your time of sorrow.
Mr. Gunnings was my 7th grade teacher at Oaklawn E. School in Lincolnton,
NC.
I always remembered him talking about Sonya during class.
I saw the obituary in the Gaston paper and I just wanted to let you kniow that I remember Mr. Gunnings. In 7th grade, he was the tallest man that I had ever seen. God Bless his family.
Kim L
August 25, 2010
I have been sober and clean for 15 continuous years. Dr. Gunnings was instrumental in showing me the pathway to a new life. I have mentioned his influence on my recovery many times in open speak meetings. I am sure there are many more that he has helped thru the years that now are enjoying a meaningful life. My deepest condolences to his family. He was a good man.
Deborah Sudduth Garland
August 25, 2010
Sonya and Family, may the peace and blessings of God go with you this day and forever more. Dr. Gunnings has finished his race and now sits at God's feet. He is saying Well Done my good and faithful servant.
Ann Dudley Burns
August 25, 2010
Please accept my deepest condolences on your great loss, and know that you will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
With Sympathy,
August 24, 2010
To the Gunning's family, May God give you peace in your time of grief and mourning. Dr. Gunnings was a special human being and he will be missed by many who new him. Dr. Gunning was always an inspiration to us and we loved his visits to Dr. Tucker's office over my many years working there. God bless you all.
Michelle Smith, Atlanta GA
Dr. Gail Ganakas
August 24, 2010
Sonya,
Your father's kindred spirit lives within you. He has touched the many lives of children, families and community. Peace, comfort, thoughts, hopes and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Rosa Soliz
August 24, 2010
Sonya, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God keep you in his hands during your time of sorrow.
McMillan Family
August 24, 2010
Dear Barbara and Sonia,
The McMillan family would like to offer our sincere condolences to your family. Our lives are forever woven together in friendship and love. While we cannot be present for the homegoing service, please know that we will be thinking of you and praying for you both and the family. Thank you Dr. Gunnings for your strength, guidance, and support throughout the years. We pledge to continue to carry out your legacy of love for people, especially students. ~Joseph, Mildred, Charles, Deborah, Diane, and Robert Hurd
Patricia Coleman, M.D.
August 23, 2010
My most sincere sympathy is extended to the Gunnings family. Elements of Dr. Gunnings' character are woven into the souls and fabric of the many medical students with whom he interacted, showing such devotion, kindness and strength of purpose. We live more purposeful lives because of you.
Ruby Helton
August 23, 2010
Drs. Barbara and Sonia,
I am sorry for your loss. Dr. Gunnings helped me so much in dealing with a loss. I will never forget. The Greater Lansing Area has lost a true giant. May God bless and keep you.
IRMA SCRUGGS CUELLAR
August 23, 2010
TO THE GUNNINGS FAMILY:
MY PRAYERS AND SYMPATHIES ARE WITH YOU. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO KEEP YOU IN HIS GRACE. DR. GUNNINGS WAS A GIANT IN THE AMERICAN COUNSELING ASSOCIATIONS. HE WILL BE TRULY MISSED.
Harriet Sheffey-Singleton
August 23, 2010
I was a student of Dr. Gunnings in the early days when little was known about Systemic Theory and Flowcharts. If it was'nt for the Urban Counseling Program and the NIMH grant which he wrote, many of us would have been out of higher learning degrees. My heart goes out to the whole MSU family, especially the "old school" group. We lost a marvelous teacher, therapist, family man and more importantly an Educated Black Maverick in our profession. My sincere sympathies go out to his wife and daughter.
Nancy Backus
August 23, 2010
I was a student in one of the first classes Dr. Gunnings taught at MSU, and talked to him again many years later when a member of my family needed help. He was an amazing person- so warm, strong, well-spoken and down-to-earth. He was genuine and a wonderful human being. I am so glad that I knew him. I hope that everyone who came into contact with him lets his best qualities live on inside of them. My sympathy to the members of his family and to all of us who will miss him very much.
Darryl Pettway
August 23, 2010
To the Gunnings Family. I am praying for you and know that God will comfort you during this very difficulty time. Dr. Gunnings gave hope to multitudes and has left a legacy within his family. Thank you for lending him to all of us.
Arnetta Cage
August 23, 2010
Dear Gunnings Family, My prayers and thoughts are with you all during your time of bereavement. As a young teenager the teachings of Dr. Gunnings were well embellished in my upbringing. His soft spoken voice generated a loud message when talking about the the youth and decisions surrounding multicultural. God Bless and know that Dr. G was truly a giant in all that he was instrumental in.
Arnetta Cage
Melissa Andrews
August 23, 2010
Mrs. Gunnings and Sonya, My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family through the tough times and we will always remember Mr. Gunnings in his gentle giant ways. Love always Melissa Andrews and family
Patrick Gibbons, DO
August 23, 2010
Dear Barbara, Sonia, Taylor,
I was really at a loss for words when I got the call this weekend. Dr. Gunnings was and always will be a great man. In the 23 years I've know him, he has been a teacher, a colleague, and a sage advisor. As I think of all he's imparted to me the meaning of having a gift and the responsibility to use it well is so clear to me today. Alongside such a sense of sadness that things in this world will never be quite the same, there stands real and strong, a man who will always be a part of my life. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
We Love You
Geneva Davis
August 23, 2010
Dear Barbara and Family. My mother (Geneva Davis) would not rest until I found some way to send condolences to you. She's on the phone as I type this note. After reading Dr. Gunnings' accomplishments all I can say is "Well Done". I am very proud that he made such a significant mark during he tenure with us. May you get some peace in knowing that we love you and wish you well. Regards, Geneva Floyd Davis and Family.
Kimberly Reynolds
August 22, 2010
Dr Gunnings saved me, and taught me to change my thoughts and behaivors. He helped me to turn my life around, and truly cared about me. I will never forget him. for he will always be in my heart and mind forever. My prayers go out to his family who he often talked about and adored especially Taylor his grandson. Dr Gunnings is an angel. Rest now Dr. G and eat some pecan pie. I Love You!!!
Valerie Smith
August 22, 2010
Dear Soror Barbara and Gunnings Family,
Dr. Gunnings made his mark on my life just as he did for thousands of others over the years. I will miss him. In addition to our personal connection, years ago we worked on several projects for Holt Public Schools, where he was instrumental in the district's first efforts to recognize the needs of the multicultural community of students and families there. I'm sorry for your loss. And thank God for the blessing of Dr. Gunnings in all of our lives.
Valrie & Kevin Brooks
August 22, 2010
Barbara – Our prayers are with you always.
The Brooks family (neighbor)
August 22, 2010
Just knowing that he was such an inspiration to so many. He bought me a birthday cake 11 days ago. Such a wonderful man. He told me how he was looking forward to his grandsons football games...... He said his grandson meant so much to him. People in our group, always made sure he had coffee or water. We took care of him. He meant alot to me........ God bless Dr Gunnings...............
Mackenzie Weiss
August 22, 2010
I have been counseled by Dr. Gunnings since i was a sophomore in High School (3 Years). He has helped me through a variety of things and I will miss him very much. To his family and grandson, Taylor, of whom he was very proud to talk about with me, I am very sorry for your loss. I know he loved you very much. We will all keep him in our prayers.
Carla Clough
August 22, 2010
A truly honorable man. He and his wisdom will be missed greatly.
Matthew Anderson
August 22, 2010
I have recently come to know Dr. Gunnings on a more personal level. We sparred a bit - in a good and informative way. He was clearly a man of deep convictions and insight. We will all miss his strategic push, his voice and counsel. Deepest condolences to the family. As the current president, I also want to add condolenses on behalf of BFSAA of Michigan State University.
August 22, 2010
Dear Gunnings family:
We are so very sorry for your loss! Dr. Gunnings was truly special and will be sadly missed!!! We will keep your family in our prayers.
Yours truly,
The Mitchell and Coles families
Le'Donta Curry
August 22, 2010
Dr. Gunnings will always be remembered by me, helped me so much and he will be missed. For those of us he helped, we know that this man cared for us, the best way to honor him is to do right, stay on the right path and be the men and women he strived to help us become
jeff barnes
August 22, 2010
I'll always have loving memorys of the debates I had with dr gunnings during my treatment with him he,ll aways have a speical place in my heart.
Ruth A. Terrell
August 22, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Cedric Wilson
August 22, 2010
A great man that I had the pleasure of meeting many years ago through my mother (Ruth T.) as a teenager. I was not a problem child, just needed someone to talk to at the time and since then I've life my entire with his words of encouragement. He will be greatly missed even as far away as Dallas TX if not further.
Sincerly:
Cedric Wilson
Shari Haithco (Clarke)
August 22, 2010
In my Father's house are many mansions...may the place that has been prepared for you provide the rest that you have earned. Your accomplishments in the MSU and greater Lansing communities were undertaken with tireless enthusiasm and committment. I pray this will be a time for the Gunnings family to embrace and cherish these memories during this time of grief. Shari Haithco (Clarke).
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