Obituary of Gwendolyn Espanola Hurd

Gwendolyn Espinola Hurd was born on April 1, 1924 to Ann Thompson and Albert Lambert in Hanover, Jamaica, West Indies. She was the eldest girl of six children - John, Gwendolyn, Leslie, Thelma, Gilbert and Norma. Gwendolyn grew up surrounded by loving parents, siblings and family. Her childhood formed the basis for Gwendolyn’s lifelong love for teaching; she especially had a passion for teaching and nurturing toddlers and babies. She earned a certificate in education at McIntosh Memorial/Wesley Mount School in Manchester, Jamaica and taught at Silvia Foot Infant Center in Kingston, Jamaica.

Gwendolyn met the love of her life, Herbert Ignatius Hurd, and they were married in 1957. Their devoted union produced four treasured sons, Derrick, Delroy, Lascelles and Basil. Gwendolyn and Herbert ultimately became the amazing and doting grandparents to Lisa, Dwight, Ileana and Jensen-Noelle (Derrick’s children); Leon, Antonette, Jem and Jamal (Delroy’s children); and Tony, Linda, Richard and Lamar (Lascelles’ children).

After migrating to the United States in 1969, Gwendolyn returned to Jamaica to take care of her ailing mother, Ann, until the time of her passing. She then returned to the United States and resided in New York for several years, before relocating to Dundee, Florida, her final resting place.

Gwendolyn was extremely devoted to teaching and taught pre-schoolers at Laurelton Springfield Community Day Care Center in New York for over fifteen years. As an active member of Ridge Community Church of God for thirty years, she continued her love of education by teaching the younger children. She also participated in the church choir, where she graced others with her beautiful voice. Gwendolyn’s life was centered around her faith. She was a prayer warrior for her children, grandchildren and entire family.

Gwendolyn’s hobbies included cooking, singing and reading. She especially loved reading and would read everything from the Bible to the subtitles on TV. In her earlier years, Gwendolyn also enjoyed and indulged in window shopping as a form of self-care.

Gwendolyn was preceded in death by her husband Herbert, mother Ann, father Albert, siblings John, Leslie, Thelma and Norma. Gwendolyn leaves to treasure her memory: beloved brother Gilbert; grateful and caring children Derrick, Delroy and Basil (Lascelles sadly passed away several days after Gwendolyn); loving daughter-in-law Joann, doting grandchildren and great grandchildren, special nieces and nephews, cousins and a host of dear relatives and friends. Gwendolyn’s love, laughter and light will be missed; but we will forever celebrate the gift of her life and keep her in our hearts.