On May 23, 1956, Orna Bell welcomed a baby girl into this world. She was adopted at birth by Sam and Olivia Carradine. Later, Nolan Smith would enter her life as a step father. He loved and cared for her like his own. Gwendolyn was loved and cared for by all of her parents who preceded her in death. Gwendolyn was always a smart and loving young woman. Gwendolyn was baptized at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church at an early age. As an adult she joined The Church Without Walls located in Houston, Texas. She later attended Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church until her death. Gwendolyn was always active in the church serving on the media team and helping whenever she could. Gwendolyn attended Ross Sterling High School, and graduated in 1975. Immediately after high school, she began her studies at Prairie View A&M University. Gwendolyn majored in Industrial Engineering Technology. She received her Bachelor of Science degree on December 31, 1979. Always in pursuit to further her education, she attended and graduated from Itt Technical Institution in 2008, with a concentration in Computer and Electronic Engineering Technology. She went on to receive a postgraduate degree from Purdue Global in Information Technology and Computer Network Systems. Gwendolyn never stopped pursuing higher education. She gained several certifications. In 2022, she obtained her notary license. Gwendolyn loved learning and electronics.

Gwendolyn Carradine married Bracy Parker Jr. in 1981. She is preceded in death by her late husband.

She leaves to cherish one biological son Bracy Parker III, one step- daughter Shamica Ross, two sisters Flora Lewis (Shepherd), Evelyn Brass, four brothers Rickey Smith ( Jacquenlyne), Vincent Smith ( Annissia), Tyrell Smith (Valicia), and Gordan Dailey ( Vanessa). She is preceded in death by one brother Marcus Smith ( Kimberly). Gwendolyn Parker has grandchildren that she leaves to cherish, Elysha Atkins, Taliyah Atkins, Grant Parker, and Tiny Parker. Ms. Gwendolyn Parker leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives, friends, and associates.