Gwendolyn Romelle Barrineau Ward, affectionately known as “Gwennie” since childhood and “Gwen” in her business life, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, following a long illness with dementia. She was 94.

She was born to Lizzie Ann and Carroll Theodore Barrineau on November 3, 1931, the third of nine children. She graduated from Andrews High School, where she played basketball and, like her mother, was a talented seamstress-an early expression of the creativity, style and entrepreneurial spirit that would shape her future.

In 1949, she married Norris Jennings Ward. Together, they moved to Charleston and eventually settled on Sullivan’s Island, where they raised their four children.

Gwen was a devoted wife, mother, family member, employer and friend. She was a community leader who dedicated her time and love of children as a Brownie and Girl Scout troop leader. She was an accomplished businesswoman and a beloved presence in her store to generations of family, employees, clients and friends.

Along with Norris, she co-founded Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant, a name inspired by Gwen but given a distinctive spelling to create a memorable and stylish brand. Gwen helped build the business during its first 30 years, contributing her energy, creativity, determination and unmistakable sense of style to its growth until it was sold by the Wards.

Those who knew Gwen best will remember her not only for what she accomplished, but for the way she made people feel. She was adored by her family and friends and never knew a stranger. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel at home, appreciated and loved.

Gwen was an exceptional cook and loved gathering people around her table. It was not unusual for someone who was away from their family on a holiday to be welcomed by her. Bonds were strengthened and love was measured by time spent together in the kitchen. She influenced family cooks and created traditions that will be carried forward.

Above all else, Gwennie loved her family. She was a selfless caregiver, a steadfast wife and mother, and a woman whose generosity and warmth touched countless lives. Her beautiful smile, welcoming spirit and enormous capacity to love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Gwennie is survived by two siblings, Sonya Marie B. McConnell and Thomas O. Barrineau; her children, Gwendolyn Romelle Ward, Norris Andrew Ward and Beverly Ann Ward Burris (Steve); ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Norris Jennings Ward; their daughter, Karen Lee Ward; her parents; and six siblings, Hazeline B. Morris, Carroll T. Barrineau Jr., LaJean B. Owens-Kinder, Brontë B. Scott, DeLaine B. Payne and Rebecca B. Smith.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care given to Gwennie by the staff of Shem Creek at South Bay Memory Care and Lutheran Hospice of Mount Pleasant. Their kindness and support were a tremendous comfort to Gwennie and her family.

A celebration of life to honor Gwen will be held at Stuhr’s Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until noon. A private family graveside ceremony is planned to honor Gwen and Norris.

Gwennie leaves behind a legacy of family, love, hospitality, entrepreneurship and traditions that will live on through the generations. She made the world a better place, and she will be profoundly missed and forever loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or to a charity of one’s choice in memory of Gwen.

Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.