Obituary of Gertrude E. Holland

Gertrude Estelle Holland, 88, a retired credit analyst of Monticello, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown, NY.

The daughter of the late William Holland and Anna McKinley Holland, she was born June 15, 1935, in the Bronx, NY.

Gertrude Holland was a beloved mother and grandmother. Fostered as a baby, her greatest wish was to have a large family to call her own. Gertrude lived a simple life, but very rich as a woman of great faith and matriarch of her family. Gertrude was a devout follower of the Lord, a passionate evangelist, and held a profound love for music and literature her entire life. Gertrude touched the lives of countless individuals she encountered with her charismatic personality, warmth, sincerity, and genuine love for all. Gertrude's warm smile and heartfelt words never failed to touch the hearts of those around her. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level, to instill hope and faith, was a gift that left an indelible mark on the hearts of those around her. Her life was a living testament to the transformative power of faith and the boundless love of the Lord.

In addition to her devotion to spreading the Gospel, Gertrude found immense joy in music. Her soulful voice lifted the spirits of all who heard her sing hymns and praise songs. Getrude also had a deep love for literature. Her collection of books was filled with well-worn Bibles, hymnals, and a diverse collection of books that ranged from inspirational works to works of fiction. She found solace and joy in the written word, often spending quiet hours immersed in the pages of a good book.

Gertrude E. Holland is survived by three daughters: Wanda James of Orlando, FL, Deana B. Coy of Bristow, VA, and Debra A. Pinkney of Fort Lauderdale, FL; five sons: Glen Rickenbacker of Atlanta,GA, Brian G. Washington Jr. of Andalusia, AL, Cedric M. Washington of Monticello, NY John B. Washington of Monticello, NY and Dennis M. Washington of Parksville, NY; 28 grandchildren; and many, many great grandchildren. All will forever cherish the memories of her love, wisdom, and the profound impact she had on their lives. Her legacy of faith, love, and music will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She was predeceased by her ex-husband General Washington and her son Jesus Rickenbacker.

The family invites friends and well-wishers to join in a celebration of Gertrude E. Holland’s life. The viewing will be held on Monday February 26^th, 2024, from 10 – 11am at First Baptist Church, 28 Liberty Street Monticello, NY, with a funeral service from 11am -1pm. Burial will follow at the Rock Ridge Cemetery in Monticello, NY, with a Repast at West Broadway Villas, 19 West Broadway Villas, Monticello, NY from 2pm -5pm.