Celebrating the Life of Mrs. Gwendolyn W. Chism

Services are being held Thursday August 21, 2014 at the McCoy Funeral Home Chapel in Palestine, Texas with Rev. Dwyane A. Moffitt, Jr. officiating. Mrs. Gwendolyn W. Chism passed away Friday August 15, 2014 at her home. Mrs. Gwendolyn Word Chism was born on April 3, 1931 in Palestine, Texas to the parents of Mrs. Bessie Mae Shuffer Word and Mr. C. P. Word.

She attended Banks Elementary School, a 1949 graduate of Lincoln High School. She received a BA Degree from Jarvis Christian College, earned a Masters from the University of Houston. Post graduate work was done at Prairie View University and North Texas State University, respectively.

Mrs. Chism taught in the Dallas Independent School District for 27 years. She taught at Colonial Elementary, William B. Miller and Erasmo Seguin Learning Center. Mrs. Chism was recognized in 1988-89 as Teacher of the Year in Dallas ISD where she also served as 3rd grade level chairperson, Seguin.

She was a quiet, dedicated and productive teacher influencing many many students to further their education. Former school principals and supervisors spoke highly of Mrs. Chism.

She leaves to cherish her memories Mr. L.C. Chism husband of 50 years, Sister Mary Word-Hawkins of Detroit, Michigan. Son Clarence H. Lee of Watauga, Texas. Daughter Gwenivere Tolbert of Lancaster, Texas. Eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. Burial will follow at Memorial Cemetery under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home.