Gertrude Sheriff

Gertrude "Serch" Sheriff (nee Wellington), a beacon of love and faith, departed from this world on November 4, 2023, at the age of 103. Born on April 10, 1920, in the lush district of Derry, St Mary, Jamaica, she was a daughter to the late Uriah and Agnes Wellington and a sister to Eulalie, Theresa, Constantine, Rose, Louise, and Benjamín, all of whom predeceased her. Gertrude's final moments were spent at Saint Francis Hospital And Medical Center in Hartford, CT, where she succumbed to septic shock.

Gertrude's life was a testament to the enduring spirit of her generation. She received her education at Donnington All Age School, where she developed a lifelong love of learning. After completing her education, she honed her skills as a talented dressmaker, becoming well-known in her community for crafting school uniforms for children, a testament to her kind-hearted nature.

Serch, as she was affectionately called, was a devoted mother to her children, Doleta "Peggy," Herbert "Johnny," and Frank "Keith." Her legacy continues through her loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by her generosity and loving spirit. Though her beloved Tensei and Pat "Joyce" have passed before her, the family bonds they shared remain unbroken.

Gertrude's life was rich with interests that reflected her creative spirit. She was an avid reader, always with a book close at hand, and found joy in arts and crafts, creating beauty with her hands just as she did with her heart. Her home was a warm and welcoming place, filled with the evidence of her artistic pursuits and the laughter of her loved ones.

Those who knew Gertrude would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and kind. She lived her life as an embodiment of these virtues, touching the lives of everyone she met with her gentle wisdom and unwavering kindness. Gertrude's faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's challenges with grace and fortitude.

A quote that resonates with the life Gertrude led comes from Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Gertrude's life was a series of small, loving acts that together created a profound impact on her community and family. She may not have set out to change the world, but she changed the worlds of those around her with her immense love and kindness.

As we say farewell to Gertrude Sheriff, we celebrate the remarkable century she lived and the countless lives she touched Her legacy is not one of sorrow but of triumph in the love and grace of our Savior. As it is written, "Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord." (Matthew 25:21)

Now, as we commend Sister Serch to the Almighty, let us hold onto her teachings, her love, and her unwavering faith. She has run the race, she has kept the faith, and now, she has claimed her crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, has awarded her on this day. And so, we say, until we meet again at Jesus' feet, rest in peace, dear Sister Search, rest in peace. Amen.