Gwendolyn Newell

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gwendolyn Newell, a remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit and compassionate heart touched all who knew her. Gwen left this world unexpectedly on October 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Born on January 13, 1954, in Lubbock, Texas, Gwen was the cherished daughter of William Alonzo Newell and Nina Ruth Newell. Growing up in a home filled with love and music, she developed an early passion for the arts. She took great pride in singing with her church choir and later taught herself to play the harp, a testament to her love for music and learning. Gwen was a proud graduate of Valley High School, class of 1971, and went on to earn her Bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her career was marked by 25 dedicated years at PG & E Power, where she also met her beloved husband, Michael, whom she married in 1989. Their partnership was one of mutual support and adventure, cherished by all who knew them. After retiring in 2008, Gwen continued to enrich her life with diverse experiences, freelancing for Sega Genesis and exploring the world of wineries. Her love for travel and new experiences was as boundless as her spirit. Gwen's feisty attitude and sharp wit were matched only by her boundless compassion for animals, particularly dogs. She devoted much of her time to working with local rescues and fosters, leaving an indelible impact on countless lives. Her kind and gentle nature made her a beloved figure in the canine community; dogs seemed to instinctively know they had a friend in her. Gwen is predeceased by her parents, William and Nina, her sister Wanda, and her husband, Michael. She is survived by her loving niece Diane Norton (Randy) and her stepdaughter Jennifer Schwartz (Ben), who will forever cherish the memories and lessons she imparted. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gwen's life on October 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Cornerstone Bible Church, located at 7915 Lola Ave, Lubbock, Texas. Her warmth, humor, and zest for life will be remembered by all who gather to honor her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gwen's memory to A Place for Us Greyhound Rescue, an organization close to her heart, located in Lubbock, TX. Gwendolyn Newell will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.