Gwendolyn Marie

Smith Key

Gwendolyn Marie Smith Key, age 81, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on December 22, 1943, in Kingston, Oklahoma, Gwen was the eldest child of JW and Pauline Smith. She was raised in the close-knit community of Irving, Oklahoma, where her early life was marked by strong family ties, hard work, and joyful memories—especially of picking cotton alongside her sister Ann and brother Ronnie. Also playing basketball, cheered on faithfully by their parents.

Gwen had a deep love for learning and a lifelong passion for education. She earned her Bachelor of Science from the Oklahoma College for Women in Chickasha, Oklahoma, and later, in August 1991, received her Master's in Education from Southwest Texas State University.

She married Bill Besett and was joyfully surprised by the arrival of twin daughters, Tiffany Gwen Besett Gilmore and Stephanie Marie Besett Ryan, born on August 16, 1970. Throughout her life, Gwen lived in Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas before settling in Wichita Falls, Texas, in 1992, where she spent her later years surrounded by family, friends, and her community.

Gwen dedicated her career to education, beginning as a home economics teacher and later teaching history, social studies, special education, and working with alternative education programs. She ended her distinguished career as a diagnostician, advocating for students and supporting their educational journeys with empathy and grace.

Gwen was known for her warm heart, infectious smile, and unwavering optimism. She never met a stranger and always looked on the bright side. A lover of shoes, purses, and clothes, Gwen was always impeccably dressed—her style and spirit leaving a lasting impression. She enjoyed Coca-Cola and Moscato, and she was proud to have traveled to Italy, Germany, and Mexico.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Key; daughters Stephanie Ryan and Tiffany Gilmore; stepson Kenny Davis; grandchildren Cole Gilmore, Kate Ryan, and Kayson Davis; sister Ann Cargill; and brother Ronnie Smith. Gwen was also blessed with dear friends, including her cherished DOLA group, who brought her joy and laughter over many years.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Beyond Faith Hospice and Countryside Senior Living for the kind and compassionate care provided to Gwen in her final months.

A reception will be held at 12:00 PM on Sunday, July 6, 2025, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM at Irving Baptist Church, 17017 N 2770, Ryan, Oklahoma.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Irving Baptist Church in Gwen's memory.

Gwen's legacy of kindness, resilience, and generosity will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a light in every room, and her memory will be treasured forever.