Fran and Valerie. My heart is broken as I look up Bop friends present and past. Your mom and I were besties at Alderson WV. I’ve always missed her guidance and love. She also help me navigate thru the system. Plus she was my friend. I miss yall deeply. I am so shock of her passing. I will continue to miss her until we meet again. Stay well ladies Keep praying.

Francesca and Valerie – my heart and condolences go out to you on the loss of your mother. She and I worked together in Danbury, Ct. I remember your mom not only as a co-worker, but a friend. She was an inspiration to me in navigating the correctional the system. We assisted and looked our for each other as single parents. Jennifer and I send our regrets and condolences. Your mother was truly a leader and inspiration to those who knew her. God be with you and your family.

Fran and family – I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Gwynne and for the heartache you are feeling. Just reading about her many accomplishments and her never-ending quest to better the lives of others is inspiring. I also see so much evidence of this boundless love, empathy and hope that is living on in Fran, and I’m sure in the rest of the family. May you find peace and comfort and love in being together in her memory and legacy. With love – Kacey and the Moore Family

Words just can’t begin to describe such a beloved Sister, who I got to know while living in Fredericksburg, and working with Angel Rides Inc. Words can’t express the first time, when I transported her to Baltimore, MD, from Fredericksburg, and how I pulled over to get her something to eat, because you didn’t have enough food and needed to get something in your system, because you being a diabetic. You were so surprised that I made the stop. I remember being told by others who had transported you, and to make sure I followed the road and etc. Yet, you knew something was up as we both had noticed at the same time, a car cross over into 3 lanes of traffic, to only find out I was once a Police Officer, and also an EMT with the DC Fire Dept. I recall the smile on her face as she talked about being a Warden, and the hits just kept on coming as we shared stories and experiences that we both had.. Then she found out that I could sing and that I would preform at the facility where she was and She would always tell me that of all the people that would come to Carriage Hill, Mine was the only one that she would attend, because not because of my talents, but because I made the show about those who came to listen. I so remember one program and as I was singing she rolled up in her electric chair, and gave me a thumbs up.. I came up to her and embraced her and she just gave me a Huge smile, which was also caught on video as I was performing there and the song was called Dream.. She became simply my friend and some one I admired and looked up to, Yes, she was firm and stern and took no crap from anyone and if you were wrong in your actions, she would call you out.. Which many didn’t like… But I grew to see the heart and the spirit that she had within. I know live in Colorado Springs, CO. Yet, I know that she’s making sure that the Angels are inline and doing RIGHT.. I’m honored to have known her and traveled with her to various doctor appointments. She never let her disability remain that, for she drew on her Faith and Spirit and WILL to always press forward and onward.. She will surely be missed and Yet, I’m so glad that she always told me to follow where the Spirit leads and you know what I did just that. I shall never forget her not by any means… She was truly a One in a Million, that simply taught you to always step up and never give in or up… She was not just a friend, but my Sister in HIM.. Rest My Dear Sister REST, For you indeed kept a TIGHT SHIP, but you always found a way to let us all know that with God will and can make a difference, for you did just that an more.. With His Love and Spirit, Rest my beloved Friend and Sister Rest, He’s caring you Home, and now you’re walking the streets without your chair, and doing what you always wanted and that was to be free of Pain and your disability.. You made it home and you earned your WINGS.. Now Rest and know that we shall see one another again.. You made a difference to so many and you made a difference to me.. I love you,my Sister… But most of all My Friend…

Our deepest condolences to the family of Gwynne McCathorine. Your life and the many peoples lives you touched will leave a forever memory. We are inspired by you and your many accomplishments, especially in the beautiful family you raised. May you find peace and comfort and God Bless you. Maynard, Alicia, and Owen Orbeta

Words just can’t begin to describe such a beloved Sister, who I got to know while living in Fredericksburg, and working with Angel Rides Inc. Words can’t express the first time, when I transported her to Baltimore, MD, from Fredericksburg, and how I pulled over to get her something to eat, because you didn’t have enough food and needed to get something in your system, because you being a diabetic. You were so surprised that I made the stop. I remember being told by others who had transported you, and to make sure I followed the road and etc. Yet, you knew something was up as we both had noticed at the same time, a car cross over into 3 lanes of traffic, to only find out I was once a Police Officer, and also an EMT with the DC Fire Dept. I recall the smile on her face as she talked about being a Warden, and the hits just kept on coming as we shared stories and experiences that we both had.. Then she found out that I could sing and that I would preform at the facility where she was and She would always tell me that of all the people that would come to Carriage Hill, Mine was the only one that she would attend, because not because of my talents, but because I made the show about those who came to listen. I so remember one program and as I was singing she rolled up in her electric chair, and gave me a thumbs up.. I came up to her and embraced her and she just gave me a Huge smile, which was also caught on video as I was performing there and the song was called Dream.. She became simply my friend and some one I admired and looked up to, Yes, she was firm and stern and took no crap from anyone and if you were wrong in your actions, she would call you out.. Which many didn’t like… But I grew to see the heart and the spirit that she had within. I know live in Colorado Springs, CO. Yet, I know that she’s making sure that the Angels are inline and doing RIGHT.. I’m honored to have known her and traveled with her to various doctor appointments. She never let her disability remain that, for she drew on her Faith and Spirit and WILL to always press forward and onward.. She will surely be missed and Yet, I’m so glad that she always told me to follow where the Spirit leads and you know what I did just that. I shall never forget her not by any means… She was truly a One in a Million, that simply taught you to always step up and never give in or up… She was not just a friend, but my Sister in HIM.. Rest My Dear Sister REST, For you indeed kept a TIGHT SHIP, but you always found a way to let us all know that with God will and can make a difference, for you did just that an more.. With His Love and Spirit, Rest my beloved Friend and Sister Rest, He’s caring you Home, and now you’re walking the streets without your chair, and doing what you always wanted and that was to be free of Pain and your disability.. You made it home and you earned your WINGS.. Now Rest and know that we shall see one another again.. You made a difference to so many and you made a difference to me.. I love you,my Sister… But most of all My Friend…

My Deepest condolences to the family of Gwynne McCarthorine. May God bring you comfort during this time of bereavement. Blessings, Rhonda

Dear Fran- Thank you for sharing your mother with so many of us. I enjoyed my visits with her and our many lively conversations. She was a pistol. Who else could convince the management team in her building to give her license to decorate the facility seasonally and at holidays for all to enjoy! From flowers at the street entrance to door wreaths at the main entrance, you knew Gywnne’s footprint was on them. And she wasn’t just mother to you and Valeria — she nurtured many of the young staff members where she resided. While I don’t have history with Gwynne’s earlier life, I cherished the time I shared with my special friend. Find comfort in knowing Gwynne thought the world of you, Valeria, and her grandchildren. Be strong, Fran, — God gives his toughest battles to his bravest soldiers. From her namesake, Gwen Hopson

Dear Fran and Valeria, Deepest condolences on the loss of your dear sweet mother. Your Mother was a wonderful person, and very dear to Stan and I. I pray that The Lord will give you the strength and comfort needed to endure your loss. Gwynne’s legacy will continue to live on each of you and her beautiful grandchildren. Love you very much, Stan and Vee

“Blessed are they that mourn, for they will be comforted.” May God’s presence be with you and your family to heal your heart, to comfort your soul and to give you His Divine peace.

My heart goes out to you and your loved ones. Soror Gwen will truly be missed. Let me know if you need anything…anything at all.

I am so sorry for your loss. Gwynne was the nicest and caring women imaginable. She loved her kids with no end and talked about them all the time, her smile lit up the whole room when they came to visit. Ivy and Evan were her pride and joy and loved her sleepovers and movie nights. She had a solution for every problem and didn’t mind sharing what she thought. I will miss her dearly.

My deepest condolences Soror Fran to you and the family. Golden Soror Gwynne will truly be missed. It was such a blessing to grow our friendship and sisterhood since I moved closer to where she stayed…treasured memories. Lean on your sorors during this time…we are here to support you in anyway we can. May God continue to comfort and keep you and the family.

Fran and Val, Cling onto him, allow his peace to rule in your heart and guide you both. Sending strength and prayers your way! Leslie “Pebbles” Banks

Fran and Val, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Soror Gwynne, will be missed. I am honored to have served under her leadership in the sorority. She helped me in my personal and professional growth. May God continue to bless you both, with strength, comfort and peace.

Fran – We send our deepest condolences in the loss of your mom. Her enduring light continues to shine bright, her remarkable strength perseveres, and her awe inspiring fortitude lives forever through you, Ivy, Evan, and Val. Sending thoughts, love and prayer. Matt & Lauren Murphy Psalm 147:3

When the Angel came and took Gwynne’s hand, no one was ready for her to go. But, Heaven rejoiced as she came in sight; for her soul was a brilliant diamond, shining so bright. Because God needed another Angel, HE enfolded Gwynne in HIS arms, took away all the pain and carried her HOME. As you move forward through your grief and sorrow, may GOD surround you with HIS love. Gwynne is at peace. May her memory help soothe your spirit. May God diminish your hurt and may HIS loving grace give you peace. Though you cannot see her or touch her, just listen with your heart. You will hear her love all around you. To all the family and friends, you are in my thoughts and prayers. L. Elaine Neal – NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACKS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE

When the Angel came and took Gwynne’s hand, no one was ready for her to go. But, Heaven rejoiced as she came in sight; for her soul was a brilliant diamond, shining so bright. Because God needed another Angel, HE enfolded Gwynne in HIS arms, took away all the pain and carried her HOME. As you move forward through your grief and sorrow, may GOD surround you with HIS love. Gwynne is at peace. May her memory help soothe your spirit. May God diminish your hurt and may HIS loving grace give you peace. Though you cannot see her or touch her, just listen with your heart. You will hear her love all around you. To all the family and friends, you are in my thoughts and prayers. L. Elaine Neal – NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACKS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Fran and family, I will miss her. She guided my career, kept me straight, and we were still friends. She leaves a wonderful legacy. And Fran, she was so proud of you. Denise (and Alan) Shelton

Fran, Val, Ivy and Evan, you have my deepest sympathy. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time. Your mother was a beautiful person that left a beautiful legacy.

My condolences to you and your family!!! I love you all and will continue to pray for you all!!!

Thoughts and prayers with Soror Fran, my sweetheart Valeria and Ivy and Evan. I will always have such beautiful memories of a dear woman I’m proud to have also called Soror. Rest in Paradise Soror Gwynne—free of pain and at peace. Sisterly love, Soror Melanie

Sorry for your loss condolences from the Wright and Jeffery family

Fran and Val my heartfelt sympathy. Your mom was dear to my family as a neighbor and friend. I was thankful to have her close by when I became a mother, she taught me so much. We will truly miss her. May God comfort and keep you in his loving arms.

Such a beautiful, strong, confident, God fearing woman, a force to be reckoned with. Soror Gwynne you will be sorely missed. Soror Fran and Valerie, praying comfort, peace, and strength for you and your family. God bless you.

Sorry for the loss of your Mom. Wishing you, Val, Ivy and Evan peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Francesca and Valerie I send my deepest condolences . I remember meeting Queen Gwen shortly after she retired. She was ready to start her next chapter. Ready to have lots of fun! She was such a joy to work with. She will be sorely missed. My thoughts & prayers are with your family.

Francesca and Valerie my husband and I send our deepest condolences for your loss. Gwen was a sweet person. Praying that God will give you peace and comfort.

Fran , Val and family you have our heartfelt sympathy. Praying God’s comfort, peace and strength for you. There are many fond memories of your mom singing in the choir and various organizations during her membership at Ebenezer Baptist Church. We will always remember her loving heart and the beautiful smile! Love Gail & Earl

So many things I could say about Golden Soror Gwynne. The fondest memories surround my relationship with her daughter and legacy, Soror Francesca Johnson. She truly enjoyed watching our relationship develop over the past 19 years. She watched us grow from single 20 somethings to mature women with families of our own. Each time she saw us together she mentioned how happy she was that we maintained our sisterly bond. Golden Soror Gwynne was one of the strongest women I’ve ever met. How many of us can say that we personally knew the first African American female warden of a Federal prison? She certainly made an impact on the world during her lifetime and she passed her undeniable strength to her baby, Soror Francesca. I will miss you Golden Soror Gwynne. May your spirit rest in eternal peace.

I am sorry for the loss. Your mother helped me out many of times by providing me a place to sleep and a hot meal when I was a young man traveling up and down the highway. Her heart was a big as the sun and will be missed.

Francesca and family I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. The love she had for you was fierce and it will always be there. May God provide peace and comfort for you. Amen.

Francesca and family I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. The love she had for you was fierce and it will always be there. May God provide peace and comfort for you. Amen.

My most sincere condolences Francesca and Valerie. Hold on to God’s unchanging hand; everything will be alright ? Miss Freda

Fran & Val, Prayers of peace to you and your family during this time.

I pray God give you all peace and comfort to get through this difficult time. On difficult days, remember lean on God. I’m keeping you, Val, Ivy, and Evan continuously in my prayers.

Soror Fran, my sincere condolences to you and your family. I am praying that God will comfort and strengthen you all during this difficult time. I will miss seeing your mom at church. Sending hugs and love to you all. Sincerely, Soror Ursela Daniela

Fran, My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time. May God’s love provide you with peace and comfort. Love, Sherry

Praying with you all as we celebrate Momma McCathorine’s life and mourn her passing. She welcomed me into her home, while I was many miles away from mine and we have been family ever since. Love you Franny, Val, Ivy, and Evan.

Dear Soror Fran: My condolences to you and your family. May God continue to give you and your family comfort and peace in this time of grieving. Just know that you have an angel watching over you and family.

I am so incredibly sorry for your loss, Soror Fran & family. I never met your Mom, but I can tell that she was a beautiful soul who touched the lives and hearts of so many! May you find peace and comfort in all the special thoughts and fond memories you shared with her. ??

My sincerest condolences. I am going to miss gazing over at Ma Gywnne when singing and getting her nob of Authentication That she is enjoying the music. I will continue to keep the family in prayer.

Sending our Love, Thoughts, and Prayers to you and Val on the passing of your mother. May God be your comfort and strength thru this time. The Rollins Family

Dear Fran and Valerie I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. Ok never forget the first time I met her. It was at the blessing of your home Fran when you lived in Varina. What a special person she was. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and if you need anything please don’t hesitate to give me a call. God bless Teri

My deepest condolences to you Francesca. My God give you PEACE. Dr. Lerla Joseph

Ms. Mccathorine was such an amazing woman! She taught me so much. She helped me so many things in my personal life. She was truly a wonderful friend. I am going to miss her more then words can express. My heart is breaking that we have lost such a beautiful soul from this earth. I know she is with God now and is happy but she is truly going to be missed here on earth. To her amazing family, my thoughts a prayers are with you at this time. I miss you Fran, Ivy, Evan and Valerie. Lots of love ? Joy