Gwendolyn Knight Wingate

With a heavenly chorus of “huzzahs”, Gwen declared victory over demons of disease and slipped peacefully into sweet Eternal Life in the presence of her loving family. Blessed be the Lord!Gwen was brought into the world by her parents, Charlie P. Knight and Lilly Hines Knight (now deceased). An eager student, she moved through Caldwell County schools, graduating in the Hudson High School class of 1952.Though she worked various interim jobs, Gwen’s real career began in 1957 when she and Doug Wingate married. From that point on, she dedicated her life and effort to Doug in his Air Force career and her three children. Raising and schooling children when moving frequently was challenging. However, with great energy, patience and love, she managed to raise the children to adults despite the obstacles. She soldiered on, a credit to the Air Force.She was also a long-time active member of North Catawba Baptist Church. She thrived on hearing the Word, participating in prayer life and uplifting fellowship with church members. Already, she is missed.Gwen is survived by her husband Douglas W. Wingate, Colonel USAF (retired), sons Douglas W. Wingate, Jr., Charles E. Wingate and daughter Lisa E. Zapata. Grandsons are Aaron Wingate, Nathan Wingate and Derek Zapata. Also surviving are her sisters Mary Nell Benfield, Celia Barlow, Carol Bolick and special friend Brenda Kanipe. A brother, Paul Knight, predeceased her.A memorial service is planned for Monday, January 11, 2016 at North Catawba Baptist Church. Visitation begins at 2:00 PM with a service to follow at 3:00 PM. Doctor Reverend Roger Nix and Pastor Nick Wilson will lead the observance.Memorials may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 526 Pine Mountain Road, Hudson, NC 28638 or North Catawba Baptist Church, 1596 North Catawba Church Avenue, Lenoir, NC 28645.Online condolences may be sent to the Wingate Family at www.evansfuneralservice.comEvans Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the Wingate Family.