Gwendolyn Ann (Gwen) Bagley was born Oct. 20, 1939, in Waterbury, Conn. She departed this life from Ava, Mo., Monday, Aug. 29, 2011, after a long and valiant battle with cancer.
Gwen was a strong woman and mentor to many in the younger generation. Always looking for treasures, she spent many hours going to garage sales and enjoyed collecting and antiquing.
She also liked nature and hiking with her family; her family was the focus of her life. She enjoyed reading, especially historical books about the Civil War era.
Gwen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Genevieve Klatt Gallinas; one granddaughter, Amber; and one grandson, Logan.
Gwen is survived by two daughters, Genevieve and Shelly, as well as four sons, Christopher, Paul, Mark and Michael. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Laura, Taylor, Chris Jr., Joshua, Travis, Steven, Patrick, McKenzie, Eirin, Aletha, Charity, and Sophie; and one great-grandchild, Dominic, as well as her companion and caregiver, Jan Lee.
Her wisdom will be deeply missed by a host of relatives and friends.
Friends are invited to a celebration of her life to be conducted at Ava Family Funeral Home Chapel at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate love offerings to help pay final expenses.
All arrangements and cremation are under the care and direction of Ava Family Funeral Home.
