Gemma Denise Cofield Oyewole entered heavenly rest on June 10, 2024 in Long Beach, California. She passed at 58 after a valiant battle with cancer.

Gemma was born to Neylon and Geneva Cofield in Compton, California on December 27, 1965. She bounded into the world full of energy and mischievousness to the delight of her four big siblings. As a child, Gemma was an eager student whose love of learning followed her throughout her life. Her passion for life flowed over into some of her other joys: playing the clarinet, riding bikes with her friends, and keeping an eye out for the ice cream truck.

Gemma earned honors while completing her bachelor's and master's degrees at California State University, Dominguez Hills—all as a first-generation student who busily drove across the South Bay to work and attend school full time. She became a Certified Public Accountant and obtained many other certifications throughout her career. Gemma used her education and skills during her 30-year career as a consultant at the Los Angeles County Office of Education. She felt privileged to support financial systems for hardworking educators. However, Gemma's proudest achievement was raising her daughter Kemi.

Outside the office, Gemma was always seeking new adventures! Whether it was learning to swim as an adult, editing a book manuscript, or engaging in a Bible study, she sought to push herself physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Gemma's life was guided by the Christian faith instilled by her parents. Throughout her life, she faithfully served in the Church of Christ as a generous teacher, speaker, and mentor. She never "grew weary in well doing," finding opportunities to honor Christ by humbly reaching the people others might overlook. Gemma lived with hope that when she was called from this life to the next she could say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (II Timothy 4:7). Indeed, the angels rejoice for her life of Christian love!

Gemma is survived by her loving husband Toye Oyewole; daughter Kemi Oyewole; mother Geneva Cofield; siblings Betty (Bruce) Perkins, Kaye (Eddie) Lloyd, Jaye (Angie) Cofield, and Neylon Cofield Jr; nieces and nephews; extended family; and friends. She is preceded in death by her caring father Neylon Cofield Sr.

A visitation will be held Long Beach Colonial Mortuary (638 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802) on June 21, 2024 from 4-7pm. The celebration of life and repast will be held at the Lakewood Church of Christ (6500 Del Almo Blvd, Lakewood, CA 90713) on June 22, 2024 at 9am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the United Negro College Fund.