Gertrude Geneva Woodson Allen was born in Cumberland, Virginia on July 1, 1936, to John Willis and Gracie Eva Woodson. She was the oldest of 11 children.

Gertrude, affectionately known as Gertie, accepted Christ at a young age and joined Petersville Baptist Church in New Canton, Virginia. She was a faithful member of the church for 52 years. She sang in the Senior Choir and served on the Usher Board and as Treasurer of the Missionary Circle. Gertie attended Luther P. Jackson School in Cumberland and furthered her education at Bernetta’s Beauty School where she received her license/certification in cosmetology. She was employed as a hairstylist at Bernetta’s Beauty Salon for several years and later worked from her home.

Gertie married Charlie Lewis Allen on May 12, 1956. She was a great cook and took pleasure in serving her family and friends. Gertie enjoyed watching television and playing games with her family. She also liked working in her flower and vegetable garden. She was a giving person, had a smile that lit up a room, and was loved by all.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her parents, husband, granddaughter Justine and brothers Archie and James.

She is survived by her four children, John (Lorraine), Charlie Jr. (Carol), Jean and Ronnie (Audra); eleven grandchildren, Johnnell (Gary), Shauntrice (Kenneth), Jamari, Shawn (Emily), Justin, Jeremy, Jerome, Ronnie Jr., Christian, Jasmine and Lenora; ten greatgrandchildren, Tyra, ShaNyla, Kristian, Shiann, Ainsley, Messiah, Keagan, Bryson, Brice and Kai; five sisters, Dorothy (Charles), Shirley (Robert), Ruth (Moses), Betty (Elmus) and Lucille (Samuel); three brothers, Delma, Raleigh (Elaine) and Clarence; daughter-in-law Mary Ann; sister-in-law Brenda; she also leaves to cherish a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, nephews, great-great nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Legacy of Love

A wife, mother, a grandma too, This is a legacy we have from you,

You taught us love and how to fight, You gave us strength; you gave us might.

A stronger person would be hard to find, And in your heart, you were always kind.

You fought for us all in one way or another, Not just as a wife not just as a mother.

For all of us you gave your best And now the time has come for you to rest.

So go in peace, you’ve earned your sleep, Your love in our hearts we’ll eternally keep.

Acknowledgements

The family would like to thank everyone for the many acts of kindness shown during their time of bereavement through phone calls, texting, cards or just stopping by. May God bless you and His love be yours to share.