Gwendolyn "Gwen" Franks Breese

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Franks Breese, 83, of Waynesville, NC, passed away on June 9, 2025. Her life was defined by strength, purpose, generosity, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved.

Born on February 9, 1942, in Bryson City, North Carolina, Gwen was the daughter of the late Gwin Dargin Franks and Verayle Calhoun Franks. She spent her early childhood in both Bryson City and Auburndale, Florida, with most of her formative years in Bryson City. A 1960 graduate of Swain County High School, Gwen went on to earn degrees in History and English from Mars Hill College in 1964.

On September 17, 1966, Gwen married Robert H. “Bob” Breese Jr., and they lived in Waynesville, NC, sharing 52 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and dedication until his passing in 2018.

Surviving are three children: Robert H. ‘Rob’ Breese III (Barbara) of Winter Springs, FL; Ronald S. ‘Ron’ Breese (Susan) of Waynesville, NC; and Angela “Angi” Breese Standish (Thomas) of Cornelius, NC; eight grandchildren: Susan ‘Niki’ Breese, Hope ‘Emmi’ Breese-Gentz (Michael), Melissa Palmer (Dustin), Bradley Breese, Robert ‘Bo’ Breese IV (Miranda), Richard ‘Shea’ Standish, Sydney Standish, and Sophia Standish; and five great-grandchildren: Maddie Rose, Charles Gentz, Emily Palmer, Anna Palmer, and Michael Gentz. Gwen also leaves behind her niece, Jenni Howell Thielen, and special cousin, Gail Murray Winkler.

After graduating college, Gwen began her professional life as a social worker in Jacksonville, Florida, before returning to North Carolina to work for child protective services with the Department of Social Services. She later became a juvenile court counselor with the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, retiring in 2002 after a long and meaningful career advocating for children and families.

In retirement, Gwen and Bob enjoyed traveling to places like Alaska and California, with Bar Harbor, Maine, holding a special place in her heart. They enjoyed many good times with friends and cherished every opportunity to visit with their children and grandchildren.

A devoted member of Grace Church in the Mountains in Waynesville, Gwen served in many roles, including Senior Warden. Her leadership and commitment left a lasting impact on the parish community.

During her final two years at Arbor Ridge Assisted Living in Huntersville, NC, Gwen remained as she had always been - gracious, grounded, strong and determined. Even in unfamiliar surroundings, she brought warmth and kindness, made new friends, and stayed closely connected to those she loved most.

Gwen leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and strength that lives on in her children, grandchildren, and all who knew her.

Private services will be held at Grace Church in the Mountains with Wells Funeral Home assisting with arrangements.

In keeping with Gwen’s generous spirit, memorials may be made to Grace Church, 394 N Haywood St, Waynesville, NC 28786, or to the charity of your choice.

Gwen’s presence was a steady light in the lives of those she loved, and her light will continue to shine. She truly made a difference in the lives of others.

The care of Ms. Breese has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville