Gwendolyn H. Alexander

Gwendolyn Hayes Alexander, affectionately known as Mrs. A or Gwen, age 86, entered eternal rest on January 24, 2026, in Chesterfield, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Carlvet and Emily Hayes, of Norfolk, Virginia. She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted son, Charles Glen Snipes of Chesterfield, Virginia; two cherished granddaughters, Jhera Gallop of Atlanta, Georgia, Tiera Talley of Norfolk, VA; 3 great-granddaughters, Tamia Talley, Tia Talley, and Tanae Talley, and one beloved grandson, Jahmire Gallop. She is also survived by two stepbrothers, Edward Wiggins and Tony Everett, both of Norfolk, Virginia; an amiable sister-in-law, Mary Metz of Norfolk, Virginia; devoted cousins Kenneth, Ronald, Alfred, Marsha and Sandra; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Gwen attended Norfolk Public Schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1957, where she proudly served as a member of The Marching Bookers. She continued her education at Norfolk State University and later worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard before making history as the first Black female letter carrier with the United States Postal Service in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

After retiring from the USPS, Gwen’s entrepreneurial strength and vision came fully to life. She successfully operated Barraud Park Grocery Store, maintained several long-standing janitorial contracts on the Norfolk Naval Base, and pursued her passion for photography as a successful freelance photographer. Her business ventures also included ownership and operation of the Azalea Gardens Car Wash and Detail, along with several other flourishing endeavors. Gwen was a determined, forward-thinking entrepreneur—resourceful, fearless, and deeply committed to excellence.

At an early age, Gwen gave her life to the Lord and was baptized at Queen Street Baptist Church, where her faith journey began. In her later years, she became a faithful and active member of Azalea Garden Church of God, serving joyfully in the choir and the Young at Heart Ministry. Gwen lived her faith daily and exemplified the Word of God through her actions, compassion, and service to others.

Known for her wisdom and discernment, Gwen possessed a rare gift for listening with empathy. She willingly lent a compassionate ear to those in need and was widely known as a trusted problem solver. If someone brought a concern to her—or if she became aware of a need—she would respond with wisdom, guidance, and loving “tough love.” Whether helping someone find employment, secure housing, or navigate life’s challenges, Gwen was dependable, honest, and deeply caring.

A hardworking and dedicated daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Gwen also embraced life and enjoyed the fruits of her labor. She loved traveling and cruising with her beloved sister-in-law, Mary Metz and always stayed passport ready. Among her most cherished adventures were trips to Hawaii and Jamaica.

Gwen was also well known for her love of good food, especially seafood. She never turned down shrimp or crabs and delighted in sharing meals, laughter, and fellowship with those she loved.

Her legacy is one of faith, strength, wisdom, entrepreneurship, compassion, and unwavering love—qualities that will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her.

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