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Obituary For Gwendolyn “CheChe” Carol Patterson
Gwendolyn “CheChe” Carol Patterson was born on July 13, 1951, the second-born child of John and Odessa Patterson (née Coleman) in Youngstown. Gwendolyn passed away on March 23, 2026, at the age of 74 after a brave fifteen-year battle with breast cancer surrounded by the love and presence of her family.
As the eldest daughter, CheChe was seen as both a sister and a loving caregiver to her younger siblings. She spent her childhood on the city’s North Side and graduated from The Rayen School in 1967. Gwendolyn was a talented student and excelled, particularly in mathematics.
In pursuit of broader horizons, Gwendolyn relocated to Washington, D.C., where she was joined by her younger brother, Lawrence Smith. During her time in the capital, she became an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement, passionately advocating for equality and justice for all.
Gwendolyn returned to Youngstown in the mid-1970s and embraced her role as a devoted mother when she welcomed her son, Terence C. “Terry” Gamble. As a grandmother, she cherished every moment spent with Tera-Jae Gamble and Shautanae Howard, imparting her love and wisdom to the next generation.
Gwendolyn was also a faithful church member and contributed regularly to the ministry of her former church home, Hillman Street Church of Christ. She was a longtime employee of Dillard’s at Southern Park Mall and was known for her eye for fashion, often giving tips to both customers and loved ones.
A woman of tenacity and spirit, Gwendolyn inspired those around her with her unwavering belief in their potential. She knew how to motivate those around her to believe in themselves through her advocacy, intellect, and genuine kindness
Gwendolyn delighted in activities that challenged her mind, often immersing herself in crossword puzzles, word searches, cryptograms, and the study of scripture. Tech-savvy and engaged with the world around her, she enjoyed connecting through text messages and mobile games.
Gwendolyn leaves behind a legacy of precious memories shared with her beloved son, loving granddaughters, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by her kindness and love.
As Gwendolyn’s faith became sight, she joins her parents, siblings John Patterson III, Lawrence Smith, Willis Smith, and Michele A. Holmes in eternity.
As we prepare to honor her remarkable life, we invite family and friends to gather in celebration of her journey. A graveside service will be held at Belmont Cemetery, 3346 Belmont Avenue, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11 AM. Brother Nick Kelson will lead the celebration of Gwendolyn’s life.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Gwendolyn “CheChe” Carol Patterson elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.
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On behalf of the Wednesday Noonday Prayer Warriors of South Caolina and Texas, we would like to extend heartfelt sympathy to the Family of Ms. Gwen Patterson. Ms Patterson called in to our Wednesday Noonday Prayer Line approximately 3 years ago. We call it divine intervention because she didn't know us and we didn't know her. She's from Ohio and the prayer warriors that pray on this line are from South Carolina and Texas. But God, in His wisdom and by His Spirit, guided Ms Patterson to the number. She called in religiously every Wednesday and felt comfortable enough to share with us her journey with breast cancer. We were always praying for her, and we even prayed for her Mother, Mrs. Odessa, until her transition. The last time Ms Patterson tried to call the prayer line was Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 11:53 a.m. she texted, "I need the pin." I texted her the pin, but I don't believe she was able to get on, because she would always announce herself, but didn't this time. At the end of the prayer session, I asked if she was on, but there was no response from her. However, we never ceased praying for her. Wednesday, after Wednesday, we prayed for her until we got the text from Terence that she had passed. Our hearts were/are saddened. So, to Terance and family, we mourn with you in your loss and pray God continues to give you-all strength to endure and peace as you go through this season. To God Be the glory for all He has done. Sincerely, The South Carolina and Texas Noonday Prayer Warriors
Gwen was a wonderful friend I never met anyone so generous and kind to all who knew her She always put others before herself I will miss her but I know she is in heaven with the angels and watching over her family until we meet again my friend Love You Sandy
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My friend we share grand children together. Rest In Peace.
We are so sorry to hear about mrs.Patterson passing she was a great inspiration for us all on the Wednesday noon day prayers her testimony touched our heart we will miss her and we our sorry for your loss our deepest sympathy and condolences for your family may God bless and keep you close praying for your family
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
