GWENDOLYN WILLIAMS

Gwendolyn Cross Williams was born eight of eleven children, on March 9,1928 in Vaiden, Mississippi to the late Lillian Elizabeth and Herbert Bill Cross. Gwen was educated in Vaiden Public School system. Gwen confessed a hope in Christ at an early age. She joined Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Vaiden, MS. Years later, August 12,1972, Gwen joined the fellowship of Mt. Paran Baptist Church, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Gwen met and married Rodelia Forrest to this union one son was born Erskine Forrest who preceded her in death in 2023.  In 1959, Gwen married Charles Louis Williams, who preceded her in death in 1982.

Gwen lived and worked in both Jackson, MS and Detroit, MI before relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana where she made her home.

Gwen worked for Jimmy’s Barbeque, Athletic Club and Columbia Club. In 1955, Gwen worked for Rath Packing House formerly Stark & Wetzel Packing House and she retired from this company in 1981.

Gwen had a niche for sewing and alterations. Gwen enjoyed shopping, traveling and playing different card games. Gwen loved going to her sister Vera’s home for dinners, cookouts, and all fellowships with the family. Gwen looked forward to participating in the all night and weekend card games during her younger years.  Gwen participated daily in activities at Zionsville Meadows, she was quite competitive until she transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, February 13, 2026.

Gwen was a dedicated and supportive member to various Masonic Orders. In 1972, Gwen became a charter member of Satellite Court #1 Heroines of Jericho Jurisdiction of Indiana P.H.A.; served as Most Ancient Matron of Satellite Court #1 Heroines of Jericho.  Gwen made Honorary Past Grand Most Ancient Matron of Alpha Grand Court Heroines of Jericho, under leadership of Barbara J. Ford G.M.A.M.  of Terre Haute, IN. Gwen was also a part of Leah Chapter #2 Order of the Eastern Star Jurisdiction of Indiana and Summer A. Furniss Assembly #32 Order of the Golden Circle.

Gwen was preceded in death by her loving grandson Kenyetta D. Forrest, brothers Herbert B. Cross, Jr; Edwin M. Cross, sisters Elise Saffold, Lillian Elizabeth Herring, Juanita Garland, Annie D. Wright, Vera L. Woods, Yvonne Cross and Mary A. Lee, her loving and supportive niece Helen J. Crayton.

Gwen leaves to cherish her memory her stepson, Charles L. Williams Jr. (Kathy); stepdaughter Rebecca A. Williams; granddaughters, Gwendolyn Renee Forrest, Melanie Thomas of Seattle, WA; great-grandchildren Kaylin Warren, Bryce Villatoro-Thomas of Seattle, WA, Deasmon McNeal, Cherrish, Da’nyia, and Kemani Forrest; brother, Cal A. Cross of Detroit, MI, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family and her Masonic family.

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