Gwendolyn P. Wicks, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend was called home at the age of 81 on February 3, 2026, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Mrs. Wicks was born on September 19, 1944, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to the late Helen Todd Pope and Jimmie Pope.

Gwen’s early years were spent in Portsmouth, where she graduated from I.C. Norcom High School. She continued her education at Hampton Institute, now known as Hampton University, where she earned a degree in Speech Correction and was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

After college, she married Alveraze Frederick Gonsouland, and this union produced one son, Keith. Following their move to Baltimore, Gwen began her professional journey as a speech pathologist within the Baltimore school system. Her career later evolved as she transitioned into human resources, first with the Mass Transit Association and later with Claims Administration Corporation, where she rose to the position of Human Resources Manager.

Later, Gwen met the love of her life and husband of 43 years, Ronald Wicks. Together, they started their own business, Classic Building Janitorial Services, which Gwen ran while working full time for CAC. Upon her formal retirement, Mrs. Wicks returned to Virginia to be closer to her mother, settling in Chesapeake, where she contributed her talents to Cherry Bekaert as a part-time receptionist.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Gwen was a woman of many passions. She could often be found working on projects around the house, and her creative spirit shone through in her love for reading, crafts, sewing, and playing the piano. She was also known for her vibrant presence at karaoke nights, where her singing brought smiles to many faces. Above all, she cherished socializing and spending time with her family and friends, who were the heart of her world.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 43 years, Ron Wicks; her son, Keith Gonsouland (Stephanie); her granddaughter, Grace Gonsouland; her siblings: Victor Pope (Shandra), Veda P. Brown (John), Jimmie Pope (Nelda), Vonetta Jackson (Fred), and Shelia Ford (Ed); as well as a host of extended relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

A memorial service to honor Gwen’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Family Choice Funerals & Cremations, located at 5401 Indian River Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Following the service, guests are invited to join the family for a repast at New Jerusalem Ministries, located at 5184 Singleton Way, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff of Wings Over Virginia Hospice, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, and the Waterford of Virginia Beach who have all gone above and beyond in their care of Mrs. Wicks over the past four months.

Gwen’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her loved ones will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Click the following link to view the livestreamed memorial service, or the recorded version after the service has concluded: https://player.memoryshare.com/video/gwendolyn-wicks-virginabeach-va