Gwendolyn (Murphy) DeVane

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the remarkable life of Gwendolyn Murphy DeVane, affectionately known as “Ms. Gwen” to all who were blessed to know her. Born on February 10, 1950, she spent her life pouring kindness, strength, and warmth into everyone she met. To know her was to be embraced by her unwavering love, her open heart, and her steady wisdom.

Gwendolyn attended Charity High School, where she developed her lifelong love of learning and leadership. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Winston-Salem State University, an accomplishment that filled her and her family with pride. Her education laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service, compassion, and the empowerment of others.

A proud and devoted mother, she leaves behind her beloved son, Ernest Tyrone DeVane, and his wife ClarLynda, as well as two cherished grandsons, Ernest Tylin DeVane and Edward Tyler DeVane, who were the joy of her heart. She also leaves behind four devoted brothers — Harry Murphy (Shelia), Harrison Murphy, Kenneth Murphy (Loretta) and Lawerence McCleod; — and two loving sisters, Priscilla Powell and Mary Bryant.

Her love also extended to her two godchildren, Kenyatta Dixon and Matthew Pickett, whom she cherished as deeply and tenderly as her own.

She is also survived by her beloved aunt, Vencia B. Williams, whose special bond and shared memories were a source of strength and love throughout her life.

Her family tree extends far and wide — a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless others who found in her a mother’s love, a friend’s laughter, and a mentor’s guidance. Truly, she was everyone’s mother.

Her heart for children and her passion for community shaped every part of her life’s work. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, where she nurtured young minds for more than five years before continuing her service as the Duplin County 4-H Outreach Coordinator for over 25 years. In that role, she mentored, taught, and uplifted countless young people with compassion and dedication. Through her tireless efforts, she earned the 4-H Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her extraordinary commitment to guiding and inspiring the next generation. She truly transformed the lives of countless children—creating safe, encouraging spaces where they could grow, learn, and dream. Ms. Gwen also built strong partnerships with community leaders, working tirelessly to keep youth on the right path or to offer a second chance when they needed it most.

Gwendolyn’s life was also deeply rooted in her faith. She was a faithful and devoted member of Peter’s Tabernacle Baptist Church for more than 60 years, where she joyfully sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, served as the Sunday School Secretary and supported the church’s ministries with her time, talents, and heart. Her steadfast faith guided her every step and shaped the grace and generosity with which she lived.

Gwendolyn is preceded in death by her loving husband, Ernest Clanton DeVane, her devoted parents William Boney and Sadie Murphy, and her dear brother Oliver Earl Murphy. Though they have gone before her, their spirits are surely rejoicing in her heavenly homecoming.

Her love knew no limits. Whether offering a warm meal, a word of encouragement, or a firm but gentle hand of guidance, she embodied compassion and faith in action. Her home was always open — a haven of laughter, comfort, and belonging.

Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in every life she touched. Her legacy of love, service, and selflessness will continue to ripple through the generations she inspired.

Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant Rest now, faithful servant, your work on earth is done, Your race is fully finished, your crown of life is won. You gave with open hands, you loved with all your might, and now you walk in glory, in everlasting light. The seeds you sowed in kindness will bloom through all our days, Your voice still whispers courage, your spirit leads our ways.

Though tears may fall in sorrow, our hearts will not despair, For heaven gained an angel — and we will meet you there.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23 Graveside Services celebrating the life of Gwendolyn Murphy DeVane will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Ironmine Cemetery, 8343 Highway 41, Wallace, NC, as we honor her life and legacy. A public viewing will be held at 1:00 p.m., immediately before the service. Interment will follow the service.

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