Dr. Gwendolyn Pla of Chevy Chase, Maryland departed this life on October 21, 2024, after a lengthy illness. Gwendolyn was born to Walter and Lillie Washington in North Little Rock Arkansas on November 7, 1939.

She was a graduate of Fisk University in Nashville Tennessee. Gwendolyn's career included work as a research chemist at Walter Reed Army Hospital and the Food and Drug Administration; 20 years serving on the Faculty of Howard University; and as Adjunct Faculty at George Washington University. Gwendolyn earned a Master of Science in biochemistry from the George Washington University; a PhD in nutritional science from the University of Maryland; and a Master of Social Work from Howard University. Though her marriage to Dr. Raymond Pla, Sr ended, Gwendolyn was a devoted mother to their two sons Raymond and Richard.

She was an active member of the People's Congregational Church Choir, as well as the Fisk University Alumni Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the community of Washington area psychotherapists.

Gwendolyn was predeceased by her former husband, Dr. Raymond Pla, Sr. She is survived by her sons, Dr. Raymond Pla Jr (Carla) and Richard Samad; two granddaughters Olivia Pla and Marjorie Samad; many cousins and countless dear friends.