Gwendolyn Sojourner Davis

1941 - 2023

Gwendolyn Sojourner Davis was the heart and soul of New Orleans, a woman of immeasurable character, a zest for learning and exploring the world and a deep devotion to family, Gwendolyn led a life that inspired all who crossed her path. Born on September 24th, 1941 in Independence Louisiana, Gwen was one of three children by Mildred Parker Davis and James Wilson Davis Sr. The last remaining sibling, Gwen was predeceased by her brothers Jessie Wilson Davis Jr. and Michael Jerome Davis. A family devoted to excellence in education, it was no surprise that education became Gwen's life's passion. She completed her primary education at the Brook Haven Graded School and went on to Greenville High School in Hammond Louisiana graduating in April 7, 1958. She furthered her education by earning a B.S. at the Agricultural and Industrial State University June of 1966 and in addition receiving her master's degree of Science at Tennessee State University on June 2, 1973. On March 12th, 1971 Gwen married James Thomas Redus. Together they had one son, Jaymes Thomas Redus II. She also acquired two stepchildren, Michael Redus, and Sharon Redus. Gwen was committed to bettering future generations. An impassioned educator, she founded Kiddie Kampus, a primary school empowering Black and underprivileged youth in New Orleans. Gwen was so proud of the school and the kids, Kiddie Kampus became a pillar of the community, successfully graduating over thousands of children into middle school. The school kept its doors open and ran successfully for over 20 years.

Furthering her passion for history, Gwen became a licensed tour guide specializing in the history of New Orleans jazz, The French Quarter, plantation, and swamp tours. A spirited and knowledgeable historian of New Orleans culture, Gwen's tours were so impactful she drew repeat visitors time and time again. Her passion for history extended into her personal life where she relentlessly pursued an understanding of her own family history. Also, an avid traveler Gwen traversed widely, making multiple trips to Africa, her favorite continent. She was a member of many notable organizations, the BBC destination management, the teachers retirement system of Louisiana, and her beloved sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Gwen lived a full life of 83 years. Her time sunset on this earth on November 16th, 2023 in New Orleans, LA....but her spirit will live with us forever. She is survived by loved ones dedicated to continuing her legacy: her loving son Jaymes Thomas Redus II and her grandchildren Jaymes Thomas Redus III and Jayda Nicole Redus, (Michael Redus, and Sharon Redus) her niece, Deva Newman and daughter Tyler Newman, her daughter-in-law Natasha Redus and and family. She is also survived by Stella Saunders, Sandra Gayle, Sean Davis, Toni Jones, John Hall, Michelle Parker, the Miles family and a host of family and friends. Gwen will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by her family and many friends. Our heartfelt thanks to the medical and professional staff. to Byron Calvin and Delores Miles. Arrangement by D. W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.