Gertrude Theresa Fitzsimmons Shaver

Gertrude Theresa Fitzsimmons passed away peacefully on August 9, 2023 at the age of 96. Born on January 10, 1927 she was the daughter of the late James F. Fitzsimmons and the late Edith Fitzsimmons (Burkeman) . She was one of 15 children and survived by Agnes Eakle and Betty Hamby. She was pre-deceased by sisters Sister Marie Victoria, Rita Guertler, Peg Bradley, Edith Hawkins and brothers Buck, Francis, Jamie, Leo, Barney, Eddie, Jack and Billy. She was also pre-deceased by her long-time partner, Thomas “Mac” McKnight and her husband Eugene Shaver. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Gertrude attended Ascension Catholic School and The Catholic High School in Baltimore. Her Bachelors degree was obtained from St. Mary- of- the Woods in Indiana. She entered The Sisters of Providence in 1942 and was a Sister for 27 years. Her religious name was Sister James Maurice. With a Masters degree in music education Gertrude taught in many local and out of state schools. Gertrude received a dispensation from religious life and in 1973 she joined the non-secular community. After her dispensation she worked for many years at St Agnes Hospital in the Department of Surgery.

Gert loved playing and watching golf or any sport. She was an avid reader and loved her Schnauzers Martini and Rossi. Gertrude was a long time member of the Catonsville Senior Center.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Mark's' Catholic Church, 30 Melvin Avenue, Catonsville, Maryland 21228 on September 8, 2023 at 10:30am.

Memorial contributions can be made in her name to Gilchrist Hospice @ : [email protected]