Gwendolyn Sheree Tinsley passed peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2020.  She was born on Sunday, August 27, 1961 in Franklin County VA to Rev. John William Tinsley and Shirley Stanley Tinsley.  She was preceded in death by her father, as well as her paternal grandparents John Evia and Kate Smith Tinsley and her maternal grandparents Doug and Elsie Stanely of Bassett VA.  Gwen graduated from Martinsville High School in 1979 and earned an Assoc. degree from PHCC in 81 and a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from Radford University in 1983 graduating magna cum laude.  She completed her Master's course work at the University Of NC Greensboro.  After graduating from college, she moved to northern VA where she started a career as an accountant working at GTE Spacenet Division.  In November of 1986, her life dramatically changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  Although her physical and cognitive health began to decline, she continued to work and enjoy life.  In 1997, she moved to Lawrenceville VA where she worked at St Paul's College.  In later years, she returned home to Bassett where she served as a volunteer at the Bassett Public Library.  As the effects of her illness progressed for more than 30 years, Gwen never complained and always faced life with quiet resolve.  She accepted Christ in 1986, was baptized, and joined Friendship Baptist Church.  She was a dedicated member, attending faithfully until her health declined.  For the past 12 years she lived at The Virginia Home in Richmond, VA.  When she was no longer able to attend Friendship, members dilegently sent cards and routinely traveled to Richmond to visit her, which she tremendously enjoyed.  

Survivors include her mother, Shirley Stanley Tinsley, a sister, Dr. Susan Tinsley Gooden and brother-in-law, Dr. Basil Gooden of Richmond, VA, a niece Caper Caitlin Gooden of Arlington VA, a great aunt and uncle, Louise and Wray Smith of Rocky Mount VA, her loving caregiver of 10 years, Brenda Bolling of Richmond VA and host of other relatives, church members and friends.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.