Gertrude Elizabeth Ford

Gertrude Elizabeth Ford (affectionally known as “Gertie”) was born on December 9, 1928, in Loveville, Maryland (St. Mary’s County), to the late John Phillip and Janie Goldring. On Monday, July 13, 2026, she peacefully answered God's call and entered eternal glory with her children at her side. She lived a long wonderful 97 years, and thank God for everything she poured into all those whom she met. Gertrude was the second oldest of twelve children and was raised in St. Mary's County, where she attended the local school system. She was raised in the Catholic Church, and began her education in Catholic school and later attended Banneker High School, graduating with honors. After high school, she continued her education in multiple adult education programs, a reflection of the intelligence, determination, and excellence that would characterize her throughout her life. She had impeccable penmanship, a sharp mind, great memory of numbers and a sense of humor, even as she aged well into her 90’s. Gertrude welcomed her first child, Emma Marie Goldring in 1946. Shortly thereafter, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she began building a life rooted in family, friendship, and community. Music and dancing were woven into the fabric of Gertrude's life. She loved to dress, and was known for styling in her high-heeled shoes with the purse to match. Her passion for entertainment led her to become a member of the Deltarettes, a local social club whose members shared a love for singing, dancing, and celebrating life. Gertrude and her brother, Thomas, were also accomplished dancers and members of the Royal Casanovas, where they won numerous contests and awards for their exceptional dancing and hand-dancing talents. In 1953, Gertrude married James Edward Scriber (Buck), Jr. of Hollywood, MD. Together they were blessed with four children: Angela Cosette, Bernadette Lynne, Kevin Emmanuel, and Bridget Yvette. Throughout their marriage, the family lived in several quadrants of Washington, D.C. Gertrude's homes became a welcoming home for many family members, including brothers, sisters, nephews, cousins, and extended relatives. Our friends loved the embracing arms of our mom, and would call her MOM as well. She believed family was life's greatest blessing, and her home was always open to those in need of love, support, or simply a place to belong. Although Gertrude and James divorced, they maintained a strong and respectful bond as devoted parents to their children. Both were natives of St. Mary's County, and the close relationships between the Goldring and Scriber families remained strong throughout the years. Gertrude continued to cherish her relationship with her in-laws, and family gatherings were a constant source of joy. In 1970, Gertrude moved the family to Ridge Place, in Southeast, DC. The home became well-known as a place where family, friends, and neighbors gathered often. Whether playing cards, watching football, or celebrating special occasions, the home was always filled with laughter, love, and fellowship. Neighbors affectionately referred to our home as the "down-the-street gang," a testament to the warmth and hospitality that she extended to everyone. In 1973, Gertrude married William Edward Ford (Bill). Though they found one another later in life, they had a beautiful union built on deep love, companionship, and mutual respect. Together they enjoyed traveling, dancing, listening to jazz, and creating lasting memories with family and friends. Gertrude's career included roles in the dry-cleaning industry, the U.S. Postal Service, and catering before she joined the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as a Tax Examiner. She was later promoted to Senior Tax Analyst with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), where she earned the respect of colleagues and senior officials for her professionalism, intelligence, and dedication. She retired in 1975 due to disability. Despite the challenges of her disability, Gertrude never allowed it to define or diminish her joy for living. She continued to travel, follow politics, challenge herself with crossword puzzles, attend social events, and most importantly, dance. Whether at family celebrations or special occasions, she could often be found gracefully dancing in her signature high-heeled shoes—even well into her nineties. Those cherished moments remain treasured memories for all of us. In 1982, Gertrude moved to Upper Northwest Washington, D.C., where she became president of the Tuckerman Street Cooperative Association. Drawing upon her professional expertise, she skillfully managed the association for over 20 years and earned the respect of her neighbors through her leadership and commitment to excellence. In 2004, she moved to Temple Hills, Maryland, where she enjoyed daily walks, connecting with neighbors, and staying active in her community. Independent, determined, and full of life, she lived on her own until age 95, embodying the strength, resilience, and grace that defined her remarkable life. In 2024, Gertrude moved into the home of her daughter, Angela Cosette, where she continued to enjoy reading, listening to music, and sharing cherished memories and life stories with family and friends. Gertrude's transitioning leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. As the cherished matriarch of the Goldring family, her love, wisdom, and enduring legacy will continue to inspire and be remembered for generations to come. Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Ford, one child – Emma Marie Goldring, seven (7) siblings – Teresa Alexander, Joseph Goldring, Thomas Goldring, Frances Golding, Earl Goldring, Charles Goldring, Alice Plater, and a special cousin – Bernice Wilson. She leaves to mourn three sisters – Mary Jackson of Lanham, MD, Helen Gwen Strayhorn of Capital Heights, MD and Julia Reeves of Washington, DC, and one brother – James Carroll (JC) Goldring (Victoria) of Loveville, MD. Four children – Angela Cosette Scriber of Temple Hills, MD, Bernadette Lynne’ Diggs (Arnold) of Lothian, MD, Kevin Scriber of Rockville, MD and Bridget Yvette Brown (Garry) of Upper Marlboro, MD; step-children – Tamara Ford, Kenneth Preston and Tonya Ford, a devoted cousin, George Smallwood, eight (8) grandchildren/8 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, 35 nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends.

Tributes

Gertrude Elizabeth Ford

December 9, 1928 - July 13, 2026