**Mrs. Constance Bennett "Gigi" Ussery Quarles**

August 10, 1934 – June 17, 2025

Mrs. Constance Bennett "Gigi" Ussery Quarles, a beloved educator, community leader, and spiritual matriarch, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas, at the age of 90.

Born on August 10, 1934, in Seguin, Texas, to Mable McIntyre and Jesse C. Ussery, Constance—affectionately known as "Connie"—was raised in the Sweet Home Community. At an early age, she confessed her faith and was baptized into the Kingdom of God, beginning a lifelong journey of service to her faith and her community.

Constance's educational journey was marked by perseverance and excellence. She attended Sweet Home Vocational Agricultural School in Seguin before graduating from the Blind, Deaf, and Orphan School in Austin (now known as the Texas School for the Deaf). She went on to pursue higher education at Prairie View A&M University in Hempstead, Texas, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. Her commitment to lifelong learning led her back to Prairie View A&M in 1985 to complete a Master of Education degree.

Known throughout her community as "The Golden Teacher," Constance devoted her life to education and mentorship. Her dedication to Seguin Independent School District was recognized in 1994 and then again when she retired for the second time after serving in education for 45 years.  Her impact extended far beyond the classroom walls—she inspired generations of students not only with knowledge but with compassion and wisdom. Her dedication earned her deep respect among peers and students alike.

Her commitment to service reached every corner of her life. She held numerous official positions in civic organizations such as the NAACP, Seguin Community Council, Seguin MLK committee, and the Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA). She was also deeply involved in agricultural programs including 4-H and FFA, reflecting her love for farming and youth development. Constance served on Texas historical committees and was a tireless advocate for preserving local heritage.

A woman of deep faith, Constance was an active member of her church community where she served as a Deaconess, sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, participated in missionary work, and contributed generously through kitchen and hospitality ministries.

Constance also stood faithfully beside her husband, Harry Nelson Quarles Sr., for over four decades traveling and raising her family as she supported his Military Service in the United States Airforce for more than 22 years. Their partnership was one of love, strength, and shared devotion to family and service.

She is lovingly remembered by her sister Olivia Ussery; brother George L. Ussery; daughters Yvette Bennett Woolridge and Yvonda Christina Quarles; son Harry Nelson Quarles Jr.; godson John Clancy, grandchildren Victoria Woolridge; Willie Jay Woolridge Jr. (Tiffany); Christopher Woolridge (Katherine); Jasmin Danee' Mayo-Quarles (Kevin); Lamonde John-Michael Timpson (Kearstin); Tamara Stevenson-Quarles; Raven Quarles; Keagan Quarles; Hailee Thompson; Cain Christopher True; great-grandchildren Lyric Eyve Brooks; Kaiden Tyrone French; Khari Connie-Denise French; Naomi Delores Woolridge; Kemaya Luna-Hikari Timpson; a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and many others whose lives she touched deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents Mable and Jesse Ussery; husband Harry Nelson Quarles Sr.; brothers James and Jesse Ussery; sister Delores Ussery; and granddaughter Heather Yvonda Sessoms.

Constance found joy in sewing and arts and crafts and was passionate about agriculture. Her hands were rarely still—whether creating something beautiful or working toward a better future for others.

Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, boundless love for family, tireless service to community, and a profound commitment to education. The lessons she taught will continue to echo through generations.

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her, and may her spirit continue to guide those she inspired. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2025, 11:00 AM at New St. James Baptist Church, 302 A.J. Malone Dr., Seguin, TX  78155. The viewing will be from 10AM -11AM. Pre-Celebration (Wake) will be held on June 27, 2025, 5PM-7PM at Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, TX 78155.

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