Wee Marie Prewitt Gyan. 71, affectionately known as “Poochie,” was born on January 14, 1953, in Drew, Miss., to the union of O’tice “Nan” Staples Prewitt and Willie James Prewitt, who preceded her in death.

Poochie accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at a very young age. She received her education at Hyde Park Career Academy in Chicago, Ill. Poochie retired in the early 2000s.

She was a very nurturing person and loved everyone, and everyone loved her. She was the type of person you could always depend on, no matter if you were family, friends or a stranger. She loved her family and friends with a sincere and humble heart. There are so many wonderful memories of her that it would take more than a few hours to reflect on her life. She was a genuine diva at heart. She was honest, raw, and straightforward when it came to her kids and grandchildren.

“Our Diva” you will be greatly missed and loved forever. Poochie ascended to Christ on March 20, 2024, in Statesville, N.C., surrounded by her loved ones and those who knew her best. She was preceded her in death by her husband, Timmy Christie; and her sisters, Louise Benton, Mabel Pacheco, and Demetrice Prewitt.

Poochie is leaving to cherish her funny and loving memories two daughters, LaShon Gaines and LaGree Christie; three siblings, Irene Prewitt of Orlando Hills, Ill., Patricia Prewitt Owens of Harrisburg, Ill., and Clifton Ladell Prewitt of Orange, Texas. She is also survived by four grandchildren, RaShonda Durant, Michael Allison, KeShon White and Cray Morrison. She was blessed to have three great grandchildren, Timothy Durant, Kennedy Durant and Catalaya White; eight aunts, Margaret White, LaFlora Spivey, Opal Booker, Ora Lee, Rosa Lee, Ella May, Clytee, and Pearlie May Staples; and many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews and cousins; and three very dear friends, Crystal, Wanda, and Tracy.

A Letter to Grandma

Dear Grandma:

Our Guardian, from you sneaking me mashed potatoes as a toddler to our last car ride together, I cherished every moment. Your love knew no bounds, and the warmth of your heart was felt by all who had the privilege to know you. You have raised a strong group of young men and women, teaching us the essence of compassion, perseverance, and the strength to overcome. Your 71 years on this earth were full of so much joy, laughter, and an abundance of love. And, now, we take comfort in knowing there’s no more pain, only peace.

Grandma, a beacon of light in our lives, passed away peacefully by the love of her family. Born into a world much different than the one she left, Grandma navigated her journey with grace, resilience, and an ever-present smile that could light up any room. Her life was a testament to the power of positive thinking, the strength of a kind heart, and the value of a listening ear.

She was not only a grandmother but a mother, a friend, a chef, a nanny and so much more. Her stories, often filled with wisdom and wit, will be missed but never forgotten. She was the heart of our family gatherings, her laughter was infectious, and her cooking unforgettable. Grandma was passionate about bringing people together, believing that family is not just an important thing, it’s everything. As a family, we love you dearly.

Grandma, your strength, love, and wisdom have shaped us in ways you may never have realized. As we say goodbye, we also say thank you. Thank you for being our guardian, our light, and our home.

We love you, now and forever.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Rutledge and Bigham Funeral Home. Reverend John Mott will officiate and burial will follow in the Belmont Cemetery. Mrs. Gyan will remain at Rutledge and Bigham Funeral Home where members of the family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1 until 2 p.m.

Visit the Book of Memories for Ms. Gyan at www.rutledgeandbigham.com.

Rutledge and Bigham is serving the Gyan family.