Gwendolyn Leslie Mann

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gwendolyn Leslie Mann, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this life on June 30, 2026, at the age of 51. Born on November 24, 1974, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gwen accepted Christ into her life at the age of 12 and was in the ministry at a young age. Gwendolyn was the daughter of the late Harold Eugene Boyd of NY and Doretha Boyd.of La. She was predeceased by her cherished sister Shona Boyd. Gwen's journey through life was marked by her dedication to her family, her unwavering commitment to her military and nursing careers, and her boundless love for those around her. She was a devoted wife to Wilbur H. Mann Jr., with whom she shared 31 wonderful years of marriage after they wed on September 17, 1994. Together, they raised four remarkable children: Wilbur H. Mann III (Diamond), Tyrell Ade' Mann, Jalen Rahsaan Mann, and Layla Alyssa Mann. Gwen was a proud grandmother to Kai and Kalani Mann, who brought immense joy to her life. Her legacy is carried on by her siblings, Cynthia Boyd, Veda Smith, Stacy Walton, Trenise Brown (Terail), Wallace Walton, Agusta Boyd, and Wade Wilcox (Mori). Gwen's life was further enriched by her best friend since high school, Naomi Wilson, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. Gwen's passion for education was evident in her achievements. She graduated from Mandeville High School in 1992 and pursued higher education with vigor, earning two associate's degrees, one in science and the other in nursing, from Thomas Nelson University and Inter-American University of Puerto Rico. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor's in nursing from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico and later completed her master’s degree at Post University while stationed in Guam. Her military career, which began as a Navy Hospital Corpsman in 1993, was a testament to her dedication and resilience. Gwen transitioned to the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves in 2000, where she served as a Health Services Technician. Her exemplary service continued when she received a direct commission into the Navy Nurse Corps in 2016, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Gwen's service included deployments aboard the USNS Comfort, where she played a crucial role in humanitarian missions across Central and South America. In her civilian career, Gwen made significant contributions as a registered nurse, specializing in cardiovascular, medical-surgical, and mental health nursing. Her work at Eastern State Hospital as a rehabilitation tech and her subsequent roles in cardiac and surgical nursing at Sentara Hampton Careplex, Riverside Regional Medical Center, and Obici demonstrated her unwavering commitment to healing and helping others. A member of the Kappa Epsilon Psi Military sorority, Gwen also volunteered with the Virginia Eagles Cheer team and the Phoebus HS Cheer squad, reflecting her dedication to community service. Her life was filled with the joy of supporting her children's academic and athletic pursuits, and she was a constant presence at their games and events. Gwen was known for her infectious smile and laughter, which brightened the lives of everyone she encountered. Her love for the nursing field was evident in her compassionate care for others, and her faith as a prayer warrior underscored her genuine concern for the well-being of those around her. The family requests that, instead of flowers, donations be made in Gwen's memory to a charity of your choice or an organization that supports military families or nursing education. Gwendolyn Leslie Mann's life was a testament to love, service, and dedication. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.