Mrs. Gwendolyn Burgin

Mrs. Gwendolyn M. Burgin, affectionately known as Gwen, passed away on February 9,
2025, in Sugarland, Texas, at the age of 82.  She was preceded in death by her beloved
husband Edward J. Burgin Sr.; her parents Catherine L. Morris and Julius W. Morris II;
her brother Julius Morris III; and her bonus son Marvin Burgin Sr.   
  
Gwen was born on December 31, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri.  She spent a great deal
of her childhood between St. Louis and Starkville, MS.   She graduated from Henderson
High School in 1961 in Starkville before pursuing her higher education. She earned her
undergraduate degree in Education from Mississippi Valley and later obtained her
Master's degree from Mississippi University for Women. She taught in the Columbus
School System for 36 years.  Her passion for education extended beyond the
classroom, as she dedicated her life to teaching and mentoring others both
professionally and personally.   
  
Gwen was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a loving member of the
Les Amies Social Club. She had a deep love for music and was an avid reader. Known
for her sharp wit and great sense of humor, she delighted in telling jokes and sharing
laughter with those around her. She was outspoken and direct—never hesitating to
express her likes and dislikes.   
  
A great cook, Gwen took great pride in preparing meals for family and friends. Even
when she could no longer cook herself, she eagerly passed down her culinary
knowledge to anyone willing—or unwilling—to learn.

Her warmth and generosity
extended beyond the kitchen; she was a friendly and outgoing person who genuinely
loved people and always thought of others.   
  
Faith played an important role in Gwen’s life. She grew up attending Griffin United
Methodist Church in Starkville.  After moving to Columbus, Mississippi, she became a
member of St. James United Methodist Church, where she served as an usher and
assisted with vacation Bible school as her health permitted. Upon settling in Houston,
Texas, she joined The Church Without Walls, continuing her spiritual journey in
fellowship with others.   
  
She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her son Eric (Sharon)
Burgin; daughter Shonda Burgin; bonus children Edward Burgin, Ruby (Chip) Mitchell,
Stacy (Tommy) Jenkins, and Toby Richardson; thirteen grandchildren—Xavier Burgin,
Hunner Burgin, Amira Burgin, Derrick Burgin, Roshelle Burgin, Latasha (Joey) Younger,
Savannah Burgin, Alonzo (Jaslyn) Mitchell, Camery Mitchell, Marvin (Maxine)
Burgin Jr., Jade (Eugenio) Alvarez, Michael Jenkins, and Mya Jenkins; two sisters
Laverne Ollison and Gayle Morris; three brothers Vincent Morris, Michael Morris, and Toran Morris; fourteen great-grandchildren, her special caregiver Brandy McKnight as
well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.   
  
Gwen’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her wisdom, humor,
kindness, and unwavering spirit. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and
loved her.

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