Gwendolyn T. Jones

Gwendolyn Theresa Jones, affectionately known as "Gwenn," was born on February 1, 1961, in Northeast Washington, D.C., to the late Carlotta “C.C.” and Languel “L.B.” Jones. Gwenn was the eldest of three siblings. She was joined in life by her beloved brother, the late Languel “Junebug” Jones, and her baby sister, Helena “Lena” Brooks. On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, after a brief but sudden illness, Gwenn peacefully went home to be with the Lord. In her early years, Gwenn was lovingly raised by her aunt, Helen Summers, until the tender age of 16—a bond that deeply shaped her sense of style, her generous spirit, and the love she so freely gave to others. Gwenn attended the following D.C. Public Schools: Kingsman Elementary and Brown Junior High and later earned her high school diploma from Spingarn High School. Shortly after graduating, she began her career with the District Government in 1981 at the Department of Employment Services (DOES). She served faithfully for many years before transitioning to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), completing a career spanning over 40 years of dedicated service before retiring in 2021. Gwenn was never one to sit still as she always had a part-time "gig," as she would call it. Whether it was Lane Bryant, Avenue, Budget Rental, or others, she brought her strong work ethic and joyful energy wherever she went. Later in life, Gwenn and Louis Johnson, affectionately known as "Lou," were blessed with her one and only baby boy, LaMar. He was one of her greatest accomplishments and the absolute joy of her life. She would proudly say, "That's my baby," even well into his adulthood. Gwenn and Lou did a fantastic job co-parenting. They remained close and supportive of one another, always maintaining a strong friendship. Although Gwenn had no daughters of her own, she poured her motherly instincts and debutante charm into nurturing her goddaughters, Raynette and Ronette, and her beloved niece, Dyamond. Soon after, Gwenn met the love of her life, James “Jay” Kerr. She affectionately called him “Boy Wonder,” and together, they shared 36 beautiful years together where Jay had a helping hand in shaping LaMar into the man he is today. Through love, laughter, and even tears, Gwenn and Jay shared wonderful years together until her passing. Gwenn was known for her humor, nurturing heart, and warm spirit. She was a good listener who made everyone feel seen and heard. Her signature greetings—"Hey Baby," "Hey Little Girl," and the unforgettable "OH-UH UH!"—will echo in our hearts forever. She was sincere, fun-loving, and hardworking. In her free time, Gwenn loved watching old movies (especially Shirley Temple classics) and she enjoyed HGTV. Over the years, Gwenn faced several health challenges, but her faith in the Lord remained steadfast. She never allowed her circumstances to defeat her and continued to radiate hope, strength, and grace. Gwenn leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved son, LaMar Johnson, and daughter-in-love, Pia; her sister, Helene Brooks, and brother-in-love, Lamont; her aunt, Helen Summers; her uncle, Lorenzo Jones; Aunt Eunice; grandchildren Montre, Makaio, Michael, Zorria, Acario, and Kahalil; her niece Dyamond and husband Terrell; Brittany and husband Devin; nephews David “Gary,” Dejuan, and Devin; her lifetime partner, James “Jay” Kerr; godmother, Mother Mary Mattox; and a host of family and lifelong friends.

Tributes

Gwendolyn T. Jones

February 1, 1961 - June 25, 2025