Missionary Gwendolyn Parrilla, age 64, of Vineland, New Jersey, peacefully transitioned from this life surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, November 6th, 2025, at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Galloway, NJ.

Born in Hammonton, New Jersey, to the late Eliza Mays and Ralston Spellman, Gwendolyn was raised by her father, the late Clarence Mays Sr. She was educated in the Mullica Township Public School System in Elwood, NJ, and later attended Oakcrest High School during the time of split sessions.

After completing her education, Gwen moved to Egg Harbor City, where she met the love of her life, Juan O. Parrilla. From that moment forward, their bond was one built on love, laughter, and faith. A partnership that would bless and strengthen their blended family for years to come in Hammonton, NJ.

Affectionately known as "Gwen," she worked at Greenbriar Nursing Home and ShopRite in Hammonton, NJ. Gwen's joyful spirit and kind heart touched the lives of everyone she met.

Gwen was a faithful and devoted member of Birth By Christ Ministries, under the leadership of Overseer Pastor Judy Bell Cunningham. During her time there, she was ordained as Missionary Gwendolyn Parrilla in Griffin, Georgia, at the Love and Unity Conference under the leadership of Bishop Jerome Hall.

Missionary Parrilla served diligently in many capacities; as Pastor's Aide Leader, a member of the Mother's Board, the BBC Women's Department, and a joyful member of the choir. Her ministry extended beyond one church family; she was also part of Upward Bound Prayer Ministries under the founder, Elder Rubie Burnett and later, a beloved member of Church Without Walls under the leadership of Bishop Shelton and Co-Pastor Barbara Morris.

Gwen's heart overflowed with love for her family. She cherished every moment spent with them. Cooking, laughing, and enjoying games like Spades, Phase Ten, and Karaoke with her sisters.

Above all else, Gwen's greatest joy was serving the Lord. She loved to worship, dress up, and carry herself with grace and confidence. Known for her classy nails and stylish flair, she earned the affectionate nickname "Sexy Ida."

And when it came to football, Gwen was a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, proudly cheering for her team through every season!

She is predeceased by her parents, Eliza and Clarence Mays Sr.; her father, Ralston Spellman Sr.; three sons, Juan Jr., Warren, and Joshua Spellman; three sisters, Evelyn Nelson, Tawanna Lightburn, and Margret Belvin; three brothers, Sam Travis, Ralston Spellman Jr., and Franchot Spellman; one granddaughter, Zyannah Auguste; and one great-grandson, Najid Nukeem Joshua Spellman.

Missionary Gwendolyn Parrilla leaves her fondest memories:

Her children: Bryan Harris, Diana (Victor) Carrasquillo, Nicole Thompson, Elisabeth Parrilla all of Hinesville, GA; Deanna Spellman of Vineland, NJ; Byron Spellman Sr. of Sicklerville, NJ; and Michael Spellman of Vineland, NJ.

Her siblings: Mary Ann Bennett of Mays Landing, NJ; Jeanette Emory (Andrew) of Elwood, NJ; Levon Spellman of Egg Harbor City, NJ; Synomia Corbin of Griffin, GA; Juanita Spellman of Hammonton, NJ; Clarence Mays Jr. (Jane) of Elwood, NJ; Vincent Mays (Carol) of Winslow, NJ; Chris Mays (Patricia) of Port St. Lucie, FL; Dwayne Mays (Christine) of Oviedo, FL; and Geravia Solomon of Bridgeton, NJ.

She is also survived by 34 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren, one goddaughter who truly adored her, Clarissa Solomon of Bridgeton, NJ, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

In spite of all the odds that life brought her way, she always reflected the goodness of God and the power of a praying woman, a legacy instilled in her by her mother at a young age.

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 21, 2025, 10:00 AM at Greater Love Chapel Church 279 Prince Albert Street, Mullica, NJ where a viewing will be held from 9:00AM - 10:00 AM.Burial will follow in Greenmount Cemetery, Hammonton, NJ.