Lou Eva Atwater Gwyn, affectionately known as "Lou", was born on May 12,1935 to the late Lewis and Lucille Miles Atwater in Alamance County, North Carolina. She departed this life on July 29, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

At a young age, Lou relocated to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and became a proud graduate of Atkins High School. She later attended Winston-Salem Teachers College (WSSU). It was here that she met and married the love of her life, the late Selmer Gwyn. To this union, a son, Terry Gwyn, and a daughter, Darlene Gwyn Sloan, were born. 

At an early age she joined Emmanuel Baptist Church and was baptized by the late Rev. SW Mack, Sr. She remained a devoted and faithful member until her health failed. For many years Lou made it her mission to prepare breakfast for the next pastor, Reverend Dr. John Mendez.

Lou was more than a wonderful woman-she was the heart of her family and the steady light in every room she entered. She was a loving wife, who stood faithfully by her husband’s side and built a life rooted in love, devotion, and unwavering commitment. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, faith, and deep family bonds.

As a mother, Lou poured everything she had into her children. Her love was unconditional, her guidance steady, and her prayers constant. She was their greatest encourager and biggest supporter in every season of life.

Her greatest joy came from being “Grandma”. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren, spoiling them with love, wisdom, and of course-her delicious cooking. Lou was an amazing cook. Her meals brought people together, and her kitchen was the heart of her home. Whether is was a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or a simple meal on a weeknight, she cooked with love and made everyone feel special.

Lou was quiet, kind, and humble, with a gentle spirit that touched all who knew her. She had a beautiful smile and a warmth that could light up any room. Her presence brought peace, her words brought comfort, and her love left a lasting impact on all who were blessed to know her.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary M. Ray, Betty Mack, Dorothy Atwater, and Bernice Atwater; and her brother, Morris Atwater.

She leaves to cherish fond memories her son, Terry Gwyn; daughter, Darlene Gwyn Sloan; grandchildren, Micha Sloan, Jarrett Sloan, Chrishon Gwyn, Chaz Gwyn, and Josh Coleman; great-grandchildren, Mila Sloan and Cyan Coleman; son-in-law, Booker Sloan, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Christal Coleman; her siblings, Carolyn Harris, Geraldine Buford, Thelma Harris, and Joe Atwater; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Her life will be honored by all who knew and loved her. Memories will live on through stories shared and the love she gave so freely.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Friday, August 7, 2026 at Emmanuel Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Friday at the Church.