Gwendolyn Delores Swinton, a devoted educator and cherished member of her community, passed away on May 9, 2026, at Methodist Charlton Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. Born on March 20, 1930, in Los Angeles, California, Gwendolyn's life was a testament to dedication, wisdom, and a quietly sharp wit that touched all who knew her.

Graduating in 1946 from Central Colored High School in Shreveport, Louisiana, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science from Wiley College in 1957. Over the span of more than four decades, Gwendolyn devoted herself passionately to education, teaching science, physical education, health science, and social studies across multiple schools. Her career included influential roles as a science and physical education teacher and girls' coach at Barnett High School in Terrell, Texas (1953–1955), a counselor at Dallas County Boys Home in Hutchins, Texas (1956–1957), and a health and physical education teacher and girls' coach at Dalworth High School in Grand Prairie, Texas (1960–1962). From 1964 until her retirement in 1999, she inspired countless students in Dallas's elementary and secondary schools, nurturing minds and bodies through her unique blend of knowledge and care. Even after retirement, she continued to enrich young lives by teaching science, physical education, and social studies at John XXII Catholic School in Dallas from 1989 onward.

Gwendolyn's professional achievements were recognized nationally; she was a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho and was honored as a noteworthy secondary education educator by Marquis Who’s Who. Her love for history and education culminated in her writing of the history of Central Colored High School, spanning the years 1917 to 1949—a work demonstrating her commitment to preserving legacy and illuminating paths for future generations.

Those who knew Gwendolyn remember her for her dry wit and a heart brimming with kindness. Her presence was a steady anchor, her words sparingly but impactfully spoken, leaving a lasting impression on family, friends, and colleagues alike.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Lawson Swinton; her brother, Richard Roland Parris; her sister, Haroldine Parris; her daughter, Dedra Kaye Swinton Arthur; and her parents, Victor David Parris and Elise “Shelly” Parris. Their memories live on as an enduring part of her story.

Gwendolyn leaves behind a host of loving family and friends, including Katherine McMillan, Sharon, and Linda; Bobby and WLB; Cynthia and Charles Bailey; Brandy, Vonda, Charlene, Austin, Peyton, Laila, Arielle, and London. Among those deeply touched by her life are Tony Parris and Michael High, her great-nephew,  alongside Angelia Williams—each a testament to the ripples of care and guidance she extended beyond her classrooms.

The family will honor her memory with a series of services beginning with a viewing on May 18, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Funeral Home in Dallas, followed by a rosary at 7:00 p.m. that same evening. A Mass celebrating Gwendolyn’s life will be held at St Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Dallas on May 19 at 11:00 a.m., extending until 11:00 a.m. Her final resting place will be at Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery, where burial will occur on May 21 at 10:00 a.m.

Gwendolyn Swinton's legacy is woven not only into the fabric of education but into the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. As we bid farewell, we carry forward the warmth of her spirit, the strength of her resolve, and the quiet humor that defined her remarkable life. May she rest in peace, forever remembered with affection and gratitude.