Obituary
Lillie Gertrude Baskerville, a devoted educator, compassionate mentor, and loving friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. Born on June 22, 1931, in Drakes Branch, Virginia, to the late Nellie McClendon Baskerville and Mercer "Murphy" Baskerville, Gertrude’s life was defined by her unwavering commitment to education and her deep desire to help others.
In the early 1940s, Gertrude’s family moved to Baltimore, Maryland. During her early years of employment, she worked in the food service industry, holding positions at an Ocean City hotel, the Drumcastle restaurant, and the Phi Sigma Delta Fraternity, where she not only prepared meals but also nurtured and mentored young college students.
A graduate of the Baltimore City Public Schools, Gertrude’s passion for learning led her to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education from Coppin State University, which she earned in 1975. She would go on to shape the lives of countless children as a dedicated teacher. Believing deeply in the transformative power of education, she devoted her career to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.
Loved,
& always in our hearts
“With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.. ” -Ephesians 4:2-3 (NKJV)
Obituary
Gertrude’s career as an educator spanned many years, beginning in the Baltimore City Public School System, where she inspired generations of students. Known for her gentle yet firm approach, she created a nurturing environment that allowed children to thrive academically and emotionally. Her unwavering belief in each child’s potential, combined with her patient guidance, made her a beloved teacher and a respected figure in the community. Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom. After her time in public education, she continued her work at Walter P. Carter Elementary School and later retired from the Ivy League Preschool Program. Whether teaching in schools or working with preschoolers, she brought the same care and dedication to her students. She never viewed teaching as just a job but as a lifelong mission to uplift others and make the world a better place. Though she never had children of her own, Gertrude was like a mother to many. She was deeply involved in the lives of those she taught, offering support, wisdom, and guidance whenever needed. Her kind heart and willingness to listen made her a refuge for anyone seeking advice, encouragement, or simply a caring ear.
Obituary
Affectionately known as "Aunt Trudy," she cherished her church community, where she enjoyed singing in the choir. She also found joy in family gatherings, meeting new people, and expressing her artistic creativity. A call from Aunt Trudy, often just to say "I love you," was a cherished moment for her loved ones.
Gertrude’s legacy is evident not only in the children she taught but also in the countless lives she touched through her selfless acts of kindness and her passionate faith in God. She was a beacon of wisdom, compassion, and encouragement, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.
Gertrude was preceded in death by her parents, Nellie and Mercer Baskerville, and her siblings, Pete (Curlee) Marshall, Elizabeth (Leroy) Bradley, Sylvia Marshall, Earl Baskerville, James Baskerville, and Charles Baskerville. She is survived by her sister, Nellie Lassiter; nieces Earlene, Carolyn, and Joslyn; nephews Kevin, Michael Bradley, Sr., and David Marshall; and her extended heartbeats, Monique Winn, Bryant and Renee Daniels.
She leaves behind a circle of devoted friends, former students, and extended family who will forever remember her kindness, strength, and unwavering commitment to sharing her love and light with all.
Order of Service
PROCESSIONAL
SELECTION (BLESSED ASSURANCE)
PRAYER
SCRIPTURE
OLD TESTAMENT (PSALMS 23)
NEW TESTAMENT (JOHN 14 1-7)
SELECTION (GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS)
WORDS OF COMFORT
READING OF THE OBITUARY
SELECTION (HOW GREAT THOU ART)
EULOGY
Rev Bernette Jones, Senior Minister
One God One Thought Center For Better Living
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
POSTLUDE/PROCESSIONAL
A Special Place In Our Heart
To our beloved Ms. Baskerville: Your kindness and wisdom helped shape us, your passion for education planted the seed. Now we will continue to carry the torch and share your light with the world..
Stanley
Thank you for helping to keep Gertie alive in our hearts. - Roach
Stanley - You were the son she never had A true mitzvah -Benjamin Rosenberg
She left a beautiful mark in our hearts-Pablo Drobny
Don’tCryForMe
DON’T CRY FOR ME. I WILL BE OKAY.
HEAVEN IS MY HOME NOW, AND THIS IS WHERE I’LL STAY.
DON’T CRY FOR ME. I’M WHERE I BELONG.
I WANT YOU TO BE HAPPY AND TRY TO STAY STRONG
DON’T CRY FOR ME. IT WAS JUST MY TIME, BUT I WILL SEE YOU SOMEDAY ON THE OTHER SIDE.
DON’T CRY FOR ME
I AM NOT ALONE. THE ANGELS ARE WITH ME TO WELCOME ME HOME.
DON’T CRY FOR ME, FOR I HAVE NO FEAR ALL MY PAIN IS GONE, AND JESUS TOOK MY TEARS.
DON’T CRY FOR ME. THIS IS NOT THE END.
I’LL BE WAITING HERE FOR YOU WHEN WE MEET AGAIN.
Nam-myoho-rengekyo
fe Well Lived
A life well lived is a perious gift, of hope and strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place It’s filled with moments, sweet and sad with smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shared, And laughter through the years. A life well lived is a legacy, of joy and pride and pleasure, a living, lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure
We offer our heartfelt thanks for your thoughts and prayers at this time. Your shared memories, comforting condolences and guestures of love are truly appreciated.