Gwynell Roper Tower

Gwynell Roper Tower, age 94, of Abilene/Tuscola, Texas passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 13, 1931, in Collin County, Texas to Jesse L. and Emma Dorothy (Bryan) Roper, growing up in Anna, Texas.

Gwynell graduated from Anna High School in Anna, Texas. She attended Austin College in Sherman, Texas. She met her husband, CMSGT (Retired) Russell M. Tower, who was stationed at Perrin Air Force Base in nearby Dennison, Texas. They were married on July 10, 1953, in Anna, Texas.

Gwynell lived a life full of faith, family and service to others. As the wife of a career military man, she faithfully kept the home fires burning while her husband served his country in war and at home. They were stationed at bases in Dennison, Texas; Robins AFB in Warner, Georgia; Clark AFB in the Philippines; Griffis AFB in Rome, New York; and Dyess AFB in Abilene, Texas. Gwynell and Russell were married over fifty-three years until his death on January 26, 2007.

She was a devoted member of Broadview Baptist Church. Her family and friends remember her for her strong faith and her prayers for their safety, health, success and salvation. Gwynell was generous with her time, resources, and her love for family and friends.

Gwynell is survived by her daughter, Debra Tower Stevens; grandson and wife, Bryan and Sonja Stevens; great-granddaughter, Josie Stevens; and great-grandson, Colten Stevens. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse L. and Emma Dorothy (Bryan) Roper of Anna, Texas; husband, CMSGT (Retired) Russell M. Tower of Abilene, Texas; sister, Rachel Roper of Abilene, Texas; and two infant brothers. Gwynell leaves us with a legacy of faith, love, and generosity.

Services will be held at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd., Abilene, Texas on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 2:00p.m., with Brother David Cason officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 21, 2026 from 5:30p.m. to 7:00p.m. at the funeral home.  

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the building fund of Broadview Baptist Church, 2500 S. 27th St., Abilene, Texas, 79605, or to the charity of your choice.