Gwena "Gwen" Lois (Southards) Blackledge was born December 22, 1954, to Hubert and Adaline (Laws) Southard in Yakima, Washington. Gwena was married to Alvin Thomas Blackledge on October 19, 1974, in Yakima, Washington. Gwena and Alvin had two children, Thomas, and Tracy. Gwena passed away surrounded by her family at the age of 68 on July 24, 2023

One of her favorite past times was spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. She worked at Ross Plant in Selah as a microbiologist where she later retired. Gwena also enjoyed traveling with her husband Alvin exploring different casinos. In Gwena's late years, she and her husband moved to West Richland to live with her daughter enjoying more quality time with family.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Gwena is survived by her son Thomas and wife Amy of Kuna, Idaho, daughter Tracy and husband Andrew Wickholm of West Richland, Washington, Granddaughter Emily (Gavin) of West Richland, and Grandson Layton of West Richland, Washinton

A Memorial Service will be held at 11am, Saturday August 26th at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremation followed by a luncheon, 9353 W Clearwater Ave Kennewick, WA 99336