Gwen May Wright-Thornton (Lansing)

Her Journey
Blessed indeed, says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them! (Rev 14:13 ) ESV
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose Ecclesiastes 3:1
Today we gather to acknowledge and celebrate the new life into which Minister Gwen May Wright-Thornton has entered. An eternal life in the presence of her God and Lord-her Creator.
A time to be Born Ecclesiastes 3:2
Gwen began her journey on November 10, 1957 in Detroit, Michigan. She was the youngest child born to the late John Wright and Pearl Nolen.
A time to be trained and a time to Labor Proverbs 22:6; Genesis 3:19 & Matthew 20:25-28
Gwen was educated in the Detroit Public School System. She graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1975. She also attended Marygrove College in Detroit and became a licensed phlebotomist. She proudly worked with the Henry Ford Health System, Red Cross, and the Health-O-Rama project to collect blood donations for those in need.
A Time to be Saved John 3:3
Gwen accepted Christ at an early age. She can be remembered praying for others as early as age 7. She was a faithful member of New Liberty Baptist Church.
She accepted her call into the ministry in 2008, and was ordained by her mother, Pastor Pearl Brooks at Living Waters Church. Gwen relocated to Lansing, MI in 2009 and later became an active member of New Life International Church.
A Time to Love Ecclesiastes 3:8
Gwen was a spectacular mother, whose commitment to her one and only daughter CyKenya was remarkable. She poured her heart and soul into raising Ken into a beautiful young woman. Gwen May Wright married Woodrow (Woody) Thornton, Jr. September 29, 2000 and gained two wonderful step-children; Ashley (children-Ashton, Sharday, and Brianna) and Dorian Thornton. She was a beloved daughter, sister, and grandmother and found great joy in spending time with her grandchildren. She was affectionately referred to as Nana by grandchildren: Markeyna, Joshua, Kyeisha, MeKayla, and Michael.
Gwen was a loving cousin, fantastic friend, and an amazing aunt to her nieces- Jemica, Kishana, Camille; nephews-James, Kejuan and Donovan.
A Time to Serve - Matthew 20:4
Gwen took her call to serve in ministry very seriously. Her focus was to ensure that everyone, regardless of race, creed, or color felt loved, wanted, and special. Gwen was called to witness for the Lord. She could always be heard asking anyone and everyone, Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? and would further proceed to talk about Jesus Christ through her communications; social media, telephone, and one on one conversations. She served wherever needed. She created several Facebook groups (CHD Adults, Around The Clock Prayer, Shut In but Not Shut Out) that had a membership of over 800, where she prayed and encouraged many families that were going through stormy times in their lives. Through her passion of encouragement she was also lead to pray and uplift clergy leaders and those in ministry.
Among Gwens many endearing qualities was a rare sense of grace and humility. She seemed, at times, selfless, always quick to put her own wants and needs behind others. She had a heart of gold and loved to see people smile.
Her love for giving was graced by giving over 300 blankets and hats annually to Children Hospital of Michigan. Most of the blankets and hats were donated through a clarion call through social media. Gwen was a true servant of the Lord.
A Time to Die: A Time of Peace Ecclesiastes 3:19 & 9:12
Gwen reached the end of her earthly journey and went to glory on February 2, 2015. She dealt with many health complications while remaining positive, smiling, and an inspiration to others. She leaves to celebrate her life and cherish wonderful memories: her wonderful and supportive husband, Woody; Her daughter, CyKenya Ford and her beloved son-in-law, Michael Ford. Mother, Pearl Brooks,four sisters, Roberta, Denise, Golater, and Kay. A host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Special Friends. Her Spirit will always be with us.
Visitation: Monday, February 9, 2015 10:00-11:00 a.m
New Life International Church
2630 Bennett Road
Okemos, MI 48864
517-332-5433
Funeral Service: Monday, February 9, 2015 - 12:00 p.m. (Family hour 11:00)
New Life International Church
2630 Bennett Road
Okemos, MI 48864
517-332-5433
Officiating: Apostle Phillip R. Moore
Interment: East Lawn Cemetery - Okemos, MI