Gwendolyn Ann Johnson's Obituary
Gwendolyn Ann Owens Johnson, age 75, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, peacefully passed away on January 19, 2026, in Lutz, Florida. She was born on January 18, 1951, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late William Owens and Jeanette McFarland Owens.
Gwendolyn was educated in the Birmingham City School System and graduated from A.H. Parker High School in 1968. She later attended Tuskegee University, where she met the love of her life, James Oliver Johnson. The two were united in marriage on February 4, 1974, and shared 25 years of marriage, building a life rooted in respect, love, and family until his passing.
Professionally, Gwendolyn dedicated her career to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse for over 30 years before retiring from the VA Hospital in Tampa, Florida.
Though small in stature, Gwendolyn was mighty in strength and spirit. She was fearless in times of great challenge and never hesitated to stand up for herself and for others.
Gwendolyn was a devoted cinephile who greatly appreciated both classic and contemporary films. She found joy in watching and following the work of many of her favorite actors, including Elizabeth Taylor, Brad Pitt, Christian Bale, Richard Jenkins and Denzel Washington. Watching films was one of her favorite ways to relax and spend time with family.
Above all, Gwendolyn’s proudest accomplishment was the family she built with her husband. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt whose strength and steady presence shaped the lives of those who knew her best.
She is survived by her three children: Elijah H. Johnson (wife, Kathleen), Naeem S. Johnson, and Kahlilah J. Pilcher (husband, Ankwan); two sisters, Lynda Owens and Vanessa Owens; grandchildren: Kiana Byrd (husband, Promise), Caleb Johnson (wife, Genesis), Jalani Pilcher, Skyla Johnson, Dante Francis and London Pilcher; two great-grandchildren, Leila Byrd and Adrian Byrd; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James O. Johnson; her parents, William and Jeanette Owens; and her brothers, Gus Owens and Carnell Owens.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 12:30 p.m., followed by funeral services at 1:30 p.m., with burial immediately following. All services will be held at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Drive, Trinity, Florida 34655.
Gwendolyn Ann Owens Johnson will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her fearless spirit, and the quiet strength that carried her through life’s many seasons. Her legacy of love will live on through all who were blessed to know her
What’s your fondest memory of Gwendolyn?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gwendolyn?
Share a story where Gwendolyn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gwendolyn you’ll never forget.
How did Gwendolyn make you smile?
