Gwendolyn Odetta French-Drew was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on January 24,
1948, She was the only child born to Jewrel Lee Mason of Honey Grove,
Texas and Paul French of Tulsa, both whom preceded her in death.

Gwendolyn grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma and was a member of the first
class to be accepted into Marion Anderson Elementary School. She then
attended the acclaimed Booker T. Washington High School, graduating
with the prestigious Class of 1965.

Her life was filled with many special relationships with her family and
friends. in the 1970's, she was a background singer with the
Magnificent 7, who would later become the GAP Band in Tulsa. Gwen
received an invitation from Tina Turner to sing with her, but she
refused because of the birth of her daughter.

She had a gentle, kind
spirit, which made it easy for all who knew her to seek her as a
friend. She was willing to listen quietly and to share her love,
laughter and optimism. She also continued this spirit in her
employment with the Army / Air Force Exchange Services.

Gwendolyn Odetta French-Drew, in her 65th season of life, surrendered
her soul to Jesus on Sunday morning, June 2, 2013 from her home in
Frisco, Texas. She leaves in God's care; her devoted husband, Vernon
Drew, of the home in Frisco, Texas; her daughters Shalonda [Darryl]
Bunch, Tulsa, Oklahoma and Michelle [Arthur] French-Williams, Dallas,
Texas; two granddaughters, Sasha Bunch and Monecia King; her very
special great-grandsons, Noah Alexander and Darrel Smith; her
mother-in-law, Pearline "Mother" Pouncil; along with other relatives
and friends. She will always be affectionately admired and remembered
by a host o adopted nieces and adopted children as Momma Gwen.

The Tribute will commence on Saturday, June 8, 2013 at the Tenth Hour of the Morning, in the Timothy Baptist Church. Pastor Kelly Payne is the gracious host and Pastor Anthony Folks will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Beggs City Cemetery.

You may visit Mrs. Drew, as she slumbers in sweet repose at the funeral home in Muskogee on Friday from 12 Noon until 6 PM.