Gertrude (better known as Gertie) Joyce Bryant was born on June 1, 1943 in Harlem, NY to Daisy Lurena Lawson and Herman Hammond. Gertie spent the first 18 years of her life in Harlem. She graduated from High School in June of 1961 and relocated with the family to Queens in August of that same year.

After graduating from High School, Gertie was hired by the New York City Board of Education as an Administrative Specialist, responsible for the school lunch programs. She worked for the Board of Education from 1962 until she retired in 2004. At that time she moved to Virginia to be closer to her daughter.

As a young woman growing up in the very challenging, turbulent times of the 1960s, Gertie was very outgoing, socially conscious and actively involved in the changing times of a changing world. She lived life to the fullest, loved spending time with her family and friends, having a healthy debate, taking trips to the racetrack and entertaining. She also loved cooking her for daughter Theresa, their favorite dish was Spaghetti and Fried Fish (that meal is still Theresa's favorite).

Gertie loved to travel, she was the treasurer for a family/friends travel group that took numerous trips around the country and abroad. She also loved bowling and enjoyed her Friday evenings with her bowling team that participated in numerous leagues around the city.

Gertie accepted Christ in her life on April 27, 1988. She was baptized along with her daughter at Calvary Baptist Church in Jamaica, NY. The last few months were really rough, because of the pandemic Theresa and Gertie were not able to see each other in person. However, they did do window visits and FaceTime calls. They would always say "I Love You" and would blow kisses after each window visit and call. It was her Love and Trust of Jesus that helped her get through those tough times.

Gertrude Bryant was preceded in death by her parents Daisy L. Lawson and Herman Hammond, sister Louise Lawson, Great Nephew Devon E. Mickins and sister-in-law Gladys Lawson.

She leaves to mourn; Theresa L. Bryant (Daughter); Martha F. Duncan (future Daughter-in-law); Robert S. Lawson, Kenneth Lawson (Brothers); Kim D. Lawson, Simone R. Lawson (Nieces); Kenneth A. Lawson (Nephew); Dante Cumberbatch and Jawan Lawson (Great Nephews); Rita M. Lawson and Shirley Lawson (Sister-in-laws) along with a host of loving family and friends.

Notes From Family

The last time I saw Mommy was on a FaceTime call, it was the Saturday before she passed.  She would always ask, "Did you speak to Ma?" (Her Mother). Well Mommy, you tell Ma/Nana that I said Hi and I miss you both oh so very much. We will always be friends from now until forever. Although our hearts break at the thought of not seeing you everyday, I know you are at peace. Rest in Paradise our Little Lady.

I would like to Thank the Amazing Staff at Heritage Hall Nursing Home, where Mommy spent the last four years.

Theresa L. Bryant (Daughter)