Gwendolyn McLean

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gwendolyn McLean, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and cousin, who passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at the age of 76. She touched the lives of many, through her unwavering love and devotion, always offering her time, support, and generous heart to those she cared for and cherished.

Poppy, as she was affectionately called by family and friends, was born on February 10, 1950, to the late Willie Winston Sr. and Frances Lee McLean in Trenton, New Jersey. She was educated in Trenton Public Schools and graduated from Trenton Central High School. She also attended the School of Business in Trenton, NJ. She devoted many years of dedicated service as a Computer Operator with the New Jersey State Department of Treasury, OIT before transferring to the State Police, Office of Law and Public Safety, where she became known for her strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment to those she served. Following her retirement, she continued to give of herself freely, always ready to help, listen, or offer support when needed. Her life was defined by service, both professionally and personally.

Above all, she cherished her family. They were the center of her world, and she took immense pride and joy in every moment spent with them. She also found happiness in life’s simple pleasures including trips to the casino, lively games of Pokeno, dining out, shopping, and traveling. These moments reflected her vibrant spirit and her love of connection with others.

She was deeply loved by all who knew her, and will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the way she made everyone feel welcomed and valued. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she cared for, the family she nurtured, and the many lives she touched along the way.

In addition to her parents, Poppy was also preceded in death by a sister, Linda Dawson; a brother, Milton McLean; her four grandchildren, Khalil, Kristin, Kayden and Khloe Owens, and a special cousin, Craig Jones.

She leaves to cherish his memory, a son, Shawn Owens (Cherita); two daughters Keisha Owens-Coleman (Roosevelt) and Tashay Linton (Michael); three grandchildren, Gavin Coleman, True Jackson, and Paige Linton; a brother Willie Winston McLean Jr. (Wanda); a sister, Mildred (Irving) Austell; a brother-in-law, Andrew Dawson; a sister-in-law, Madlyn McLean; special aunt, Sarah Evans of North Carolina; special cousins, Levonne “Ducy” Bostic, Marva Hairston, whom she cherished as daughters; sister cousins, Darlene “Tweet”, and Dorene “Doe” Mitchell; and Allen Miles, whom she loved as a brother; former spouse, Willie Owens; special friends, Joanne Kirkman, Carolyn Canty, Diane Daniels-Brooks, Vanessa Griggs-Scott, and Kimberly Francis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Though she has departed this earthly life, Poppy’s legacy of love and courage lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her, and her spirit rests peacefully in the presence of the Lord. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Funeral service will be 11am Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Ministerios Fraternidad Cristiana, 715 Bellevue Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618. Calling hours will be 9am until the time of service at the church. Interment will be at Ewing Cemetery, Ewing, NJ.

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