Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Gwendolyn James Obituary
Family-Placed Death Notice
JAMES, Gwendolyn GWENDOLYN DORIS CLAYTOR JAMES October 11, 1947 - February 2, 2010 Gwendolyn James, 62, passed away after a long and valiant battle with cancer on February 2, 2010 at Hospice Atlanta with her sons John and Jason watching over her. Born in Bishop, WV; grew up in Washington DC. Graduate of Cardozo High School, DC, 1965. She married John James Jr. of Atlanta GA and they had two sons-John Douglas James III (1976) and Jason Claytor James (1983). Gwen was a career US Postal employee in Atlanta as letter carrier and address management systems specialist. Gwen was the "rock" and "loving water" to her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Wendell Harvey Claytor and Ivor Briggs Claytor, and brothers Mark Durant Claytor and Dennis O'Neill Claytor. She leaves to mourn her passing her loving sons and their families: John James and Sheryce Smith & grandsons Davion and Damari, and Jason James and Angel Polite James, and granddaughter A'jai Ivor James; her siblings Richard Claytor and wife Betty Thompson Claytor, Kenneth Claytor and wife Dorothy Morgan Claytor, Sandra Claytor Tucker and brother-in-law Cecil Tucker, Theresa Claytor, Juarez Claytor and Sherry Harris, sisters-in-law Mary Kilgore Claytor and Delores Morton Claytor, cousins Donald and Sylvia Morton Claytor, former husband John D. James Jr., five aunts, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Funeral will be held on Tuesday, February 9th, 11 am viewing, Noon service at Ben Hill United Methodist Church at 2099 Fairburn Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30331, Rev. Richard D. Winn Sr., Pastor Officiating. Interment Westview Cemetery, 1680 Westview Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. Arrangements by Pollard Funeral Home, Inc. 827 Pollard Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30315, 404-688-7073.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
A´jai (your twin)
April 14, 2025
Nana it´s been 15 years since your beautiful soul left this earth and I´m 19 now. I miss you so so so much, things have gotten easier but I can´t get over youuu. I still can´t talk about you or look at your pictures too long without getting emotional. I´ve graduated (I know you were there and watching), I´m in my second year of college for finance and I know you´re proud of me. I wish you could´ve met Jr I know you would´ve loveddd him he´s funny, laidback, and nice when he wants to be he´s like a boy mini me. He lovesssss football and he´s so so good at it he´s going to the nfl one day and I pray you guide and watch over him when you goes and you and God keep him safe. He´s 13 now and taller than me and mommy, he has one more year of middle school then he´s off to high school omggg. The older I get the more I hear I look like you, I was scrolling through my camera roll the other day and I thought a picture of my face was you... twin faceeee I´ve read alllll the things everyone had to say about you and they spoke beautifully and highly on you. You´ve left a mark in this world and in all of our hearts. Everyone talks about how beautiful you are inside and out, my queen. I don´t remember your voice or your laugh that everyone is bragging on but ik they were both beautiful and heart warming. Sometimes my dad says I laugh and talk like you so I guess I can remember your by listening to myself lol. I do remember some of our memories, waking up before everybody else and watching the cooking channel together in your bed(I still LOVE cooking), popping bubble wrap on the steps, and I can remember you giving me this orange plush snake with orange stretchy hair with colorful beads. I remember pushing pops being your favorite ice cream. I love you so much I really wish you here with me, my life isn´t hard but it would be sooo much better with you here. I know we would´ve been really close as thick as thieves, I´m not supposed to question God but I wishhhh he would´ve never took you from me but I know you´re happy and not hurting. I know you´re always watching over me but I really want you to come visit me I don´t care how you do it I just want to feel your presence or see you or hear your voice. I miss you sooooo bad omg nana. I just wish you were here to see how dad and uncle John fixed the house up and set me up an at home hair salon, I´m also a hairstylist... following in your footsteps You did such an amazing job raising my dad he´s the best dad ever I couldn´t ask for a better dad literally he´s everything and more. Uncle John too he´ll get us basically anything we ask for and he got married last yearrrr. I know you would´ve given me the world if you were here and would always be there to save me I just miss you so much I thought about you tonight so I had to write to you. I promise I´ll come and visit you more as well and take care of your gravesite, you´re right up the street from my school so I know your watching me there too. I really need you to come visit me soon it´ll be the biggest breath of fresh air. Anywaysss long live my nana I love you the mostttt my twin face
Bianca Van Buren
July 22, 2021
Such a beautiful lady! Rest In Peace, I will be there to give you flowers on Horace´s Birthday. You were a Queen
February 10, 2014
I don't keep up as I should. I will pray for Gwen and the family. Ora Twyman '66
Zillah Jackson Wesley
February 9, 2014
Gwen you lived a great and special life . You were very kind to the younger sisters at Cardozo . Love to your family and Teresa . My sisters Vanella and Gwen express their condolences.
Love , Zillah Jackson Wesley
Peoples UCC Church
Washington , DC
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Steven Royster
February 9, 2014
I remember you from my high school years as one of the most attractive women I had ever seen. You also worked with my Mom at Hotshop on Wisconsin ave.
Theresa Claytor
February 9, 2014
Another year without the down home wisdom you provided. I am enjoying now the family you left behind. They are wonderful and making good decisions. You left your wisdom and love for them to grow into formidable, strong and loving people. Still basking in your love sis.
Angel, A'jai & Jason Jr. James
February 3, 2014
I tried to bypass yesterday but with failed attempt... 4yrs already...I miss you soooooo much!!!!! I love, love, love you!! A'jai is sooo blessed to have shared memories with you, memories that she wld never forget!!!!!
John Thomas
February 2, 2014
Dear Gwen,
A woman of grace who pass on
this day 4 years ago. Still remain in
my memory of years gone bye. My prayer
are still with you, because I believe
you would said "sissel- GOING HOME" to
those who you love.
Keep Smiling
John Thomas
Angel
August 7, 2013
I MISS youuuuuu!!!! Some days are better than others but tonight...not so much! I love you always and forever!
Angel, A'jai and Jason Jr James
June 26, 2013
Nanna, it's still surreal to me that you are no longer here...I love you soooo much! Words won't even come close to describe how much I miss you! It seemed like when you left, everything thing else left with you but by God's grace we manage to make it another day! I really wish you could have met your grandson that WE talked so much about, I couldn't let more time past w/o granting you your wish...born just 2days after your birthday 10/13/11 Jason Jr arrived! A'jai misses you dearly. I see so much of you in her. Nanna's girl, as she calls herself, carries your picture around where ever she goes! Every holiday we celebrate, we celebrate w/you in spirit. The kids & I frequent your grave site as often as A'jai wants! Lol! The memories you left behind as well as your wisdom, we share them with both of your grandkids. We loved you then, we love you now, your legacy lives on!
June 26, 2013
Dear Aunt Gwen.
I was always an excited niece when I came to visit. I miss you glancing over me, and telling me how I was going to blossom so beautifully one day. Your supervision of my growth, and phone calls inquiring about the family, and passed on positive messages helped me know that beauty shined from the inside out. Thank God for your God-fearing attributes that you passed on to me, and always letting me know that I'm the "eldest niece of your loving older brother," whom you loved and cherished. I will always teach my baby how we as family prided ourselves on how you raised your family, took care of GrandMother Ivor, and never lost faith or hope. Love, Ayesha.
Derek Claytor & Family
June 20, 2013
Aunt Gwen: you will always be remembered for your gentleness. May heaven smile upon you. God continue to Bless this wonderful family.
Carol Clarke Wesley
June 20, 2013
Gwen and I met in Banneker junior high schools ,attended and graduated from Cardozo High School. During our high schools we did lots of things as friends. I recall us appearing on the educational t.v.show,"Youth Wants To Know", we were selected to represent our school and had the opportunity to meet many celebrities. Our friendship continued even though we went separate ways after graduation. We reunited in Atlanta, Georgia in 1973. Our friendship rekindled and grew as both if us were members of Ben Hill United Methodist Church. Her sweet spirit, and caring manner will always be remembered by those who loved her. Family hold on to your memories until we meet her again. With love,
Carol Clarke Wesley
June 20, 2013
Gwen and I met in Banneker junior high schools ,attended and graduated from Cardozo High School. During our high schools we did lots of things as friends. I recall us appearing on the educational t.v.show,"Youth Wants To Know", we were selected to represent our school and had the opportunity to meet many celebrities. Our friendship continued even though we went separate ways after graduation. We reunited in Atlanta, Georgia in 1973. Our friendship rekindled and grew as both of us were members of Ben Hill United Methodist Church. Her sweet spirit, and caring manner will always be remembered by those who loved her. Family hold on to your memories until we meet her again. With love,
High school grad
June 20, 2013
February 2, 2013
In Remembrance of Gwen Claytor James, this song is for you.
'You'll Never Walk Aone'
John Thomas USA
February 2, 2013
In Remembrance of Gwen,this song is for you. 'You'll Never Walk Alone'
John Thomas, USA
Angel
February 3, 2012
Mommie/Nanna I miss you sooooooooo much! I miss our long conversations, your encouraging words and that cute little giggle you always managed to do! Although you are here in spirit and comfort me in your own way...I miss you physically! Until we meet again....I LOVE YOU!
john thomas
February 2, 2012
In Memory of Gwen Claytor James
Your words of encouragement,smiles and
prayers. You were the best example of an
humanitiarian that lived. You are gone but
your memories will be in our hearts.
John Thomas
Wilm,De/Wash DC
Laureen Claytor
October 12, 2011
Aunt Gwen:
Mom and I loved you very much we will always remember the good times we shared with you. Reenie
October 11, 2011
Gwen,
Remembering you on your birthday.
10/11/47-2/2/10
'GONE TO SOON'
John Thomas Wilm. De
February 2, 2011
GWEN, REMEMBERING YOU IS EASY, I DO IT
EVERY DAY. THOUGH YOUR SMILE,YOUR
LAUGH IS GONE FOREVER. THEY WILL
ALWAYS BE MY KEEPSAKE OF ONE WHO
IMMORTAL SOUL WILL BE IN MY HEART
AND PRAYERS
JOHN THOMAS WILMINGTON,DE
Lynn Vaughn
February 1, 2011
Gwen,
It's hard to believe a year has gone by. I miss our conversations and especially miss your laugh. I know that you are in a better place with a smile on your face watching over all your family.
Love,
Lynn
Sandra Claytor Tucker
January 29, 2011
My sister Gwen,
I miss you so much. Our mother Ivor and father Wendell, brothers Dennis and Mark have all gone on before you. Your sibblings, Richard, Kenneth, Theresa, Juarez and Sandra will cherish your memory forever. Your sons John and Jason (wife Angel) have come into their own, but miss you so much. And A'jai Ivor your granddaughter still speaks of you often.
Peace my sister and love to eternity.
Sandra Claytor Tucker
Yvonne Seon
January 27, 2011
I never will forget the family diner at cousin Donna Sheler's home in 2008 when Gwen and I traded stories and insights from our experiences fighting cancer. She inspired me with her courageous spirit and with her sense of humor in the midst of it all. But, when Gwen picked up my empty plate at the end of the meal and started toward the kitchen, I couldn't help stopping her. "What are you doing?" I asked. "I should be carrying your plate", I chided. We ended up carrying the plates together, laughing all the way to the kitchen sink! Gwen loved life, and she communicated that inner zest to those around her. Remembering her still helps me get through the rough patches.
Donna Sheler
January 25, 2011
I'll always remember our summer visits to Aunt Gwen and the grandparents as a youth. People would always say how much I looked like her. I miss her laugh and sense of humor and her knack for 'keeping it real'. I wish she were around a lot longer but I look forward to a heavenly reunion without separation!
Sheryce Smith
January 25, 2011
Wow,it's been a whole year and yet I still feel so much sorrow in my heart. I came to the realization that I will never have another friend and Ma like you. I really wish I could turn back the hands of time but since I can't, I will do everything in my power (live right according to his word)to make sure we meet in Heaven. Continue to watch over all of us until we meet again! Missed but never forgotten.
Love Sheryce, Davion, and Dj.
Angel James
January 22, 2011
Nanna your presence here on earth is greatly missed but I KNOW you're looking down rooting us on! The connection we have could never be explained but I thank you for always being a loving and nurturing mother to me, thank you for your guidance before and even after your passing. There isn't a day that goes that A'jai doesn't speak of you. The memories she have of you will never fade, she remember you all conversations like they happened yesterday. I see pieces of you in her more and more as the time goes by. I LOVE you soooo much and I'm looking forward to that day when we meet above. P.S. I haven't forgotten your request for your 2nd grandchild (your grandson that you always talked about).....
Theresa Claytor
January 21, 2011
Life is just a whisper. It seems just yesterday we were all together. I will miss my dear sister and I pray for her soul.
Ifeolu Claytor
January 21, 2011
My Favorite memory of Aunt Gwen was from Uncle Isaiah's funeral in 2005. She was just a hair late, and we were already seated and everything, and she sat at the end of my row, a little bit down to my right. I scooted over to her. I was only about 9 or 10. And I said, "I love your hair, Aunt Gwen" and she looked over to me and said "This is not my hair..." She lifted up her attached pony tail just enough for me to see the attachment part, and then she laughed her soft gentle laugh. I still remember it to this day almost 5yrs later. I can still hear her soft laugh in my ear. I miss it a lot now that I think about how I won't ever hear it quite the same way again... Her beauty of spirit and purity of heart has effected me greatly. Though I only saw her maybe once a year, she was definitely one of those people you meet, and you are never the same, because they are simply that sweet and warm.
January 21, 2011
Mom and I will always love and miss you Gwen. To John and Jason we will always keep the both of you and your families in our thoughts and prayers. Love the both of you. Aunt Loisy and Reenie
John Foulks
September 24, 2010
I was at Cardozo High from 1963 until I grauated in 1966. I will always remember Gwendolyn Clayton, she was the prettiest person I have ever seen in those days. I even remember her on the cover of TAN magazine. I remember when I was a kid, I delivered the post or times at her house on 11th street. I feel I lost a friend. You all have my players
Samuel Flood
April 22, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Linda Bunch
February 23, 2010
My condolences to the Claytor family and Gwen's two sons and husband. I attended Cardozo High School from 67-68 and remember she and her sister, Theresa. "The Angels are crying with joy because a new Angel has entered heaven." God bless this family.
Sandra Claytor Tucker
February 20, 2010
The family of Gwendolyn appreciates your condolences. I am her "big" sister Sandra Claytor Tucker. You can contact me to send a PDF of the funeral program, etc. Please keep her sons John and Jason James and their families in prayer. We all miss her greatly.
Eva Lee Gilbert
February 15, 2010
My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Gwendolyn. Please depend on God to sustain you. And please let the wonderful memories you have of Gwendolyn serve as a source of comfort in the difficult days ahead. I am a former classmate from Cardozo High School.
Harriet Wood
February 12, 2010
My smpathy goes out to the family of Gwen. She and her sister Theresa were friends of my late brother Richard Wood who passed last April. Gwen was such a soft and pleasant speaking person and I am sure she will be missed by all who knew her.
Mia' [mary wood] Bennett
February 12, 2010
you will always be remembered... such a special lady from those care free days of Cardozo High School - you represented us well. Best prayers to the family... Mia' {mary wood} Bennett
Sharon Harrison
February 12, 2010
I will always remember ! (class of '65)
Bettie Grant Crawl
February 11, 2010
My prayers and condolences go to the Claytor and James families on the loss of Gwen. She was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. (Class of '65)
Jingle Rhodes
February 11, 2010
To The Claytor and James families, I stand as part of the village that offers prayers of condolescense, peace and love and healing in the midst of your loss.
Phill Wood
February 11, 2010
My sincerest condolences to the family...Gwen was a most remarkable and beautiful person. She will be sorely missed.
Jean Dixon Tabor
February 10, 2010
To the Claytor and James Families, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you today in prayer. Praying for your families, with love "Class of 67".
February 9, 2010
I am shocked and sorry to hear about Gwen's passing. We all grew up on Columbia Rd in Washington, D.C. The Jones, Claytors and other families during that time. We attended elementary thru high school together. We send our deepest Condolences to Gwen's family. May the grace and love of Jesus be with the Claytor family.
Gwen Jones Ford, Durham, North Carolina
Monica Norwood
February 9, 2010
To the Claytor and James families: My husband, John and I, wish to offer our sincere condolences. Gwen was a beautiful woman, both inside and out. I am so glad to have known her. Always gain comfort from scriptures such as Revelation 21:3-5, John 5:28, 29 and Ecclesiates 9:5, 10. May memories comfort you and may your faith carry you through during your time of bereavement.
With sincere sympathy, John and Monica Norwood
(Sherry's sister)
Cynthia Harris
February 9, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Gwen. Hearing it brought back memories of the Columbia Road crew, running from house to house. May God bless you and keep you during this time of grief. Sunshine comes in the morning.
February 8, 2010
Gwen was one of a kind person I had ever know. My prayers go out to the Claytor and James family. You will always be Ms.Cardozo
Antoinette Champ Gorham
Joan Rajah
February 8, 2010
Sandra, Theresa, John & Jason I share your loss, just as I shared in the love.Gwen was my staunchest supporter since we met at 11, always encouraging and telling me how beautiful and smart I was.She was there in my darkest moments.I could go to her house late at night, and your mother would just let me in.Gwen always remembered the positive things long forgotten by others.She once had her son try to stop a plane from leaving me.I made that flight!We would tell each other things we wouldn't dare tell others.To her I was family. So, you had to befriend me too.You were right there when my husband passed.I'm grateful for the time Gwen and I spent on the cruise.Our conversations always ended with "Luv You." Luv You Gwen!
Valarie Green
February 8, 2010
It with our deepest sympathy that Cardozo "Class of 67" wishes to convey to you Theresa, Sandra and other family members on the lost of your sister. Our class and others were honored by the grace and dignity that Gwen showed when she was chosen to represent Cardozo High School. We are all blessed to have known her and she will live on in the many fond memories that we cherish of her and
our Ms. Cardozo (Theresa). May God continue to bless you and your family. We love you. "Class of 67"
Gwendolyn Jones
February 8, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Valerie Brooks
February 8, 2010
To the Claytor and James Families,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. May your memories bring you comfort. Remain strong in the LORD.
The Smith and Taylor Families of WDC
Brynda Johnson
February 8, 2010
"Remembering you from our high school days. You always presented a warm and mild-spirited personality. Your sincere smile, soft and friendly voice will be missed by all who knew and loved you. Your journey is complete". Brynda Johnson (Washington, DC)
Kimberly Smarr-Hudson
February 8, 2010
Wise, Funny, and beautiful, she was a plesure to know and work with. My memory of her is positive and I know anyone that knows her has the same opinion. Rest in Peace my Sista' for I know you are shining brightly above. Blessed be thou art.
Rebecca Khelseau-Carsky
February 8, 2010
To Auntie Gwen's dear sisters (Theresa & Sandra) and the families, we send heartfelt condolences from Benin, West Africa. Another beautiful and loving spirit has entered heaven's gates...Our love and prayers are with you, as will be God's comfort to bring you through this time of sorrow. Love from Becky and children (Julien, Amado & Jasmine)
Jeff Davis
February 7, 2010
To the Claytor and James Families.
My deepest regrets. Gwen and I worked together at the USPS. It's been a pleasure knowing and working with her. She was loved by all and will be missed tremendously.
Gerald Dendy
February 7, 2010
To the Claytor and the James Familes,
May the Dove of Peace bring comfort to you during this most difficult time of bereavement...
May it also comfort you, to know that your friends share your sorrow.
Some lives go on forever in the hearts and lives of those they may have touched...
In Loving Memory Of A Very Special Life...
Gwendolyn Doris Claytor James (Gwen)
Gwen will live for the ages with the grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ...She Lives!
With Deepest Regret,
February 7, 2010
To JOHN-Boy &Jason,May God be with you both of you in this time of sorry GOD will be there for all of you we love you. Love YOU ( Black) MOM Linda & Family.
John Thomas
February 7, 2010
To the Claytor and James families,so sorry
to hear about the loss of Gwen.May GOD
confort you in your time of need.My prayers are with you.Gwen the Queen of Queens REST IN PEACE
Raul Ruiz
February 5, 2010
I will remember Gwen as the most beautiful high school Queen I had ever seen.She was radiant,lovingly friendly and the most caring and gentle human being that God could have placed in this green earth.Rest in Peace Gwen.God loves you and now has you in his embrace.
Toni Johnson
February 5, 2010
To the James family. I juast wanted to offer my condolescence for your loss. I work with gwen at North Atlanta and she was always a women of integrity and humilty. She always had a calm spirit about herself. And I don't think that i ever recall her raising her voice. She will be truly miss. Toni Johnson
Charles and Vivian Gamble
February 4, 2010
Our deepest condolences are with Gwen's family.We were co-workers of hers at The Ben Hill Post Office.She was just a beautiful person to work with and will always be remembered for her heart of gold.She will be missed....
Linda Hamelberg
February 4, 2010
My heart goes out to the family. This is a true reality that someone as beautiful inside and out; has moved on to our fathers house. I loved your spirit and your wisdom. Always ready to lean a helping hand or a listening ear. I have truly loved you Gwendolyn Claytor James and will always carry you in my heart and soul. You have truly inspired my life.
Hame' Watt
February 4, 2010
Ms.Gwen, Theresa and Sandra came by our place last year. She was so full of life and joy. We really enjoyed her company. We will miss her frequent visits to the Washington area. God Bless her soul. God Bless and protect her children,grand-children, her family and many friends.
From Kadia and Hame'
Dr. Charles A. Harper III, Pastor - Paradise Missionary Baptist Church
February 4, 2010
Our thougths and prayers are with you. May God provide comfort during your time of grief.
Joy Roney
February 3, 2010
I knew Ms.Gwen as our occasional mail carrier at Manheim Georgia. I always looked forward to seeing her come through the door. She was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. A true delight to know. I feel blessed to have met her. My prayers and love to the family.
Ensa Womack
February 3, 2010
Disbelief when I was told the news. I immediately rewinded to all the years, all the phone calls of advice, and all the happy times. Words will never replace your mama John and Jason. It is and will be tough but think of the good, healthy times. You are forever in my thoughts.
Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results
827 Pollard Boulevard SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
Make a Donation
in Gwendolyn James's name
How to support Gwendolyn's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gwendolyn James's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
