Gewndolyn Cooper-Puerta

Gwendolyn Cooper-Puerta was born on October 13, 1941 in Twist, Arkansas to B.B. and Estelle Mason. The Lord called Gwen to eternal rest on June 30, 2016 at 7:36 pm. She confessed Christ at a early age and was baptized in Twist, Arkansas. Later she became a faithful member of Greater Galilee M.B. Church in Chicago, IL. Gwen’s husband, Julius Cooper; (mother) Estelle Jones; (father) B.B. Mason; (eldest sister) Ruth Jackson; and (youngest sister) Janice Diane McIntosh, all preceded her in death. As a young child Gwen was considered what is referred to today as a gifted student.  She was selected to attend Crane High School (a school where there was a minimal amount of black students).  Gwen was an entrepreneur during the late 60's and early 70’s.  Her business was called Gwen's Inn.  It was the happening spot.  All who remember Gwen's Inn can recall some wild memories. Later, she began a career with the Social Security Administration as a Debt Management Remittance Clerk for almost 20 years. She became a well-known and highly respected Union Representative (this was her opportunity to argue different cases) and she willingly helped anyone in need. It was no secret to anyone who knew her, she thought she was an authority on every subject. Her family felt that she thought she was a lawyer.  After retiring, Gwen moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. She worked several jobs there  before her final retirement.   She quickly found a new place of worship, Trinity M.B. Church, where she remained a faithful member until she was called home by the master. Gwen was loved by all and was most definitely the life of the party.  She was affectionately known as the "Bean Queen" by her nephews; Anthony, Antoine, Andre and Adonis Saddler.  She cooked every kind of bean there was, every day while living with them. While in Las Vegas Gwen met and married Mario Puerta.  She also met many other friends.   Some of which she referred to as her Las Vegas Family.  Pat, Joycelyn and Charlotte adopted her as well.  Charlotte took care of Gwen until the end. She leaves to rejoice in her memory: Bobby Joe (Doris) of Chicago, IL. Two sisters: Patricia (Anthony) Saddler of Chicago, Almarie  (Tommie) Burton-Ellisof Bellwood, IL. Two nieces: Vernita  (Brad) Walker and Dionne Mason. Six nephews: Anthony Saddler, Antoine Saddler, Andre (Dorothy) Saddler, Adonis Saddler, Bobby Mason, and Damien (Michelle) McIntosh. A host of great nieces, great nephews, special cousins, relatives, and friends.

Memorial Service will be held at Greater Galilee Baptist Church 1308 S. Independance Blvd. Chicago, IL 60624 on  July 30th 2016 from 10:00am to 11:30pm.

---