Farewell to a loved local

Gwen was a very proud resident of Braidwood, residing 80 years in her beloved town. 

Born in Murrumburrah, the only daughter of Elsie and Charles Burgess and a loving sister to four brothers – John, Lyle, Harold and Douglas, outliving them all. She grew up in Springwood where her father was a Railway Station Master, and was educated at Springwood Primary School and Penrith High School. She worked as a telephonist at the Springwood Post Office where she was held in high regard.

While visiting her Bensley grandparents in Braidwood, Gwen met Ernest Norman Wright and the happy couple were married in 1937 at the Methodist Church in Parramatta.

Loyce, their beloved daughter, was born in 1941 at Nurse Gardiner’s Hospital. With Ernie serving overseas in the Australian Armed Forces, Gwen and Loyce lived between Braidwood and her parents at Lane Cove.

After the war Gwen and Ernie, along with Ernie’s brothers, purchased Grandfather Wright’s garage on the corner of Wallace and McKellar Streets, selling Shell petrol and products, as well as Austin Motor Vehicles. They also ran a printing business from the premises. 

Gwen oversaw the farm at Gerrabatulla, tending to the animals whilst Ernie worked at the garage. The garage was sold in 1970 and Gwen and Ernie built their home in Wilson Street, a home with modern conveniences, enabling Gwen to display her many antique pieces and memorabilia. 

Gwen and Ernie were founding members of both the Braidwood RSL and the Historical Society. Gwen served many years in the Anglican Women’s Group and the Hospital Auxiliary, raising funds for both causes. She was a member of Legacy and for as long as she was able watched the Anzac March, remembering the heroes.

Gwen’s strong character helped her through the tragedy of suddenly losing Ernie in 1989 and her only daughter Loyce in 2001. With support from family and friends she rallied and continued contributing to the Braidwood community.

Family was very important to Gwen. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, an adored Grandmother to Susannah, and a special Great Granny Gwen to Lucy and Hannah, as well as a very special sister, and a much loved and caring Aunty Gwen.  She had a devilish sense of humour, putting a smile on many a face. She lived life with enjoyment for each day, with a wealth of knowledge of the local district and generous in her love for family and friends.   

Gwen was the last of a generation of the Burgess family.  Braidwood has lost a much loved local identity dedicated to her community.