Gwendolyn Cherry Marks

Gwendolyn Cherry Marks, 78, of Monticello died Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at At-Home Hospice in Conyers.

Ms. Marks was born in Monticello on September 17, 1933 to Thomas and Eliza Jordan Cherry. After the death of their mother, Gwen and her brother Thomas “Slick” Cherry, Jr. were raised by their maternal grandparents Charlie and Nannie Lee Jordan.

Thomas Cherry Sr., remarried Inez Cherry and they also shared in parenting Gwen and Thomas, Jr.

Ms. Marks’ grandparents, father and brother preceded her in death. Inez Cherry was a resident of the Retreat Nursing Home and recently celebrated her 99th birthday.

Ms. Marks joined St. James A.M.E. Church at an early age and remained a member until her death.

Ms. Marks received her elementary education in the Jasper County public school system. She was selected to attend the Mathers School for Women in Beaufort, S.C., and after graduation attended Fort Valley State College Nursing Program.

Ms. Marks had many jobs in Monticello and Eatonton. Her most memorable one was Georgia Pacific where she retired after working 24 years. “Grandma” made friends with employers, employees, and contractors. Everyone loved Grandma—she always had mints, chewing gum, and a quick word to share with everyone. After retirement, Ms. Marks enjoyed going to Monticello High sporting events and grew to love pro basketball. She was a diehard Lakers fan.

Ms. Marks married Willie James Marks, and he preceded her in death, along with a daughter, Annette Jackson.

Survivors include her step-mother, Inez Cherry; children, Jacqueline Smith, Ethel Jones, Loraine Pitts, Margaret Gilmore, Enrickie Jackson, Willie Mae Barkely, Rosemary Tinsley, Betty Thurman, Larry Marks, Joanne Ellis and Joe Ridley, special friend. Also, “Granny Gwen” had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins that were each “Granny Gwen’s favorite.” She visited her children and grandchildren often. She would travel with them and would share her adventures and pictures with everyone when she came home.

A service was held Monday, June 25, at St. James A.M.E. Church, Monticello. Rev. Jimmy Horton gave the eulogy. Interment was held in Southview Cemetery.

Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Monticello was in charge of arrangements.