Gwendolyn "Gwen" Beans McDougal, a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, gigi, and friend, transitioned peacefully on December 10, 2024, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Born on November 25, 1970, in Camden, Alabama, Gwen was the beloved daughter of Pastor Sylvester Beans and the late Mrs. Lelar Ann Beans. She was a woman of faith who lived by the Word of God, embodying love, kindness, and compassion in all her interactions. Gwen was truly an angel on earth; now she is an angel in heaven.

Gwen moved to Akron, Ohio in 1971. She attended Findley Elementary School, Jennings, Middle School, and graduated from North High School in 1989. A lover of all things fashion, Gwen attended Kent State University's School of Fashion and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, graduating in 1993. Gwen had the opportunity to study abroad in London and Paris as well as work for fashion designer Liz Claiborne in New York City.

Before Gwen's illness, she worked as a district manager for H&R Block and as a recruiter for Educational Reflections. Gwen started a human resources consulting company, HR Solutions Today, and an event planning business. She recently worked for Snyder Tax & Accounting Services. Gwen was a leader with compassion, but she was firm and serious about her pursuit of professional excellence.

A woman of faith, Gwen knew the Lord at a young age. She was a member of her father's church, Friendship Baptist Church, in Akron, Ohio where Gwen served in many capacities. She was vice president for the ministers and deacons' wives for the New Era Baptist District Associate & Affiliate Churches. She often led prayer, read the church announcements, and planned special events and anniversaries.

Mrs. McDougal was preceded in death by her cherished mother, Mrs. Lelar Ann Beans, whose influence inspired Gwen's strength and grace. She is survived by her father, Pastor Sylvester Beans, Sr. whom she adored (Estelle). Gwen is also survived by her devoted husband, Carl McDougal; her beloved daughter, Jasmine Moné Farr; and her stepson, Carl McDougal, II. She also leaves behind her sister, Vickie Beans Tart (Michael); her brothers, Dorell Sellers and Sylvester Beans, Jr.; special cousin, Valerie Dandridge (Wesley). Gwen also leaves behind dear nephew Michael Tart, Jr. (Emma); grandnieces Illia and Lela Tart; grandchildren: Log-han, Carter, Kori, Savi-Arie, and Cali; goddaughter, Lailah Ramsey; aunts: Emma Adams, Darlene Dandridge, Arie Jean Dandridge, Gladie Mae Johnson, Everlean Dandridge, Mary Brown, Augustine Rogers, and Juanita Brown; uncles: Grover Dandridge, Willie Beans, Roger Beans, Jimmy Beans, and Dexter Beans. Gwen was blessed with the love and support of her extended family, cousins, and many friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Gwen's life was a testament to her faith and resilience. She dedicated herself to her family and community, volunteering for Big Brothers Big Sisters and advocating for breast cancer awareness. Gwen always treated others with the same love and grace she held in her heart. Her radiant spirit and unwavering strength touched everyone she met, leaving a legacy of hope and kindness that will endure forever.

Gwen's life will be celebrated on December 20, 2024, at Rhoden Memorial Home, 1101 Palmetto Avenue., Akron, OH 44306. Visitation starts at 11:00 am, with services at 12:00 pm.

Instead of flowers, the family requests that donations to Stewart's Caring Place, a local non-profit that supports cancer survivors and offers support groups, counseling, legal assistance, and a wig room, among other services. For more information about Stewart's Caring Place, visit stewartscaringplace.org.