Gwendolyn H. Johnson

Celebrating the Life of

Gwendolyn Harris Johnson

Gwendolyn Harris Johnson peacefully transitioned to eternal rest with her Heavenly Father on Sunday, May 17, 2026. A woman of steadfast faith, compassionate service, and unwavering love, Gwen leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact generations.

Born on November 12, 1950, in Ivor, Virginia, Gwendolyn was the beloved daughter of the late Catherine W. Harris and Joseph Harris Jr. She was the oldest of seven children and carried that role with strength, grace, and deep care for her family throughout her life.

Gwendolyn graduated of Riverview High School (69’) and a graduate from Virginia University in (72’) and was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., (71’). Her commitment to scholarship, sisterhood, and service reflected the values she carried throughout her life.

On December 29, 1973, she married the love of her life, Reginald Wilson Johnson Jr. Together they built a loving family and shared a devoted marriage grounded in faith, resilience, and commitment.

Professionally, Gwen faithfully served as a social worker for more than 30 years, dedicating the majority of her career to serving families and individuals in Isle of Wight County. She possessed a heart for people and a genuine desire to help others navigate life’s challenges with dignity and hope.

A faithful servant of the Lord, Gwendolyn served diligently as a Deaconess at New Branch Baptist Church, where she also ushered and led several ministries throughout her years of service. Her life was marked by humility, faithfulness, prayer, and a sincere love for God and His people.

Gwen was known by many titles—mother, grandmother, sister, mentor, Deaconess, social worker, encourager, and friend—but perhaps one of her most cherished names was “Gigi,” lovingly given to her by her grandchildren. Her contagious love, warm hospitality, and nurturing spirit continuously welcomed people into her life and home. She encouraged countless individuals through both her words and her example. Resilient in faith and faithful in service, she remained a woman of steadfast devotion to God until the very end.

She leaves to cherish her memory her two sons, Reginald Wesley Johnson (Crystal) and Dr. Christopher Mark Johnson Sr. (Dr. Cherelle Johnson); her beloved grandchildren, Makaylin, Chloe, Chip, and Caleb; her siblings, Gilda Renee Harris-Howard (Simon), Joseph M. Harris(Gwendolyn), Alvin Harris (Carolyn), and Malcolm Harris (Michelle); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the assurance that she is now resting in the eternal presence of Jesus Christ, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. Her life was a testimony of faith, service, perseverance, and love—a legacy that will never be forgotten.

A public viewing will be held 1-4pm, Saturday, May 23, 2026 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of life will be held 3:00pm, Sunday, May 24, 2026 at New Branch Baptist Church. Ms. Johnson will be laid to rest at the Davis Cemetery. The family has entrusted Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. with professional services rendered with dignity, compassion and care.