Sister Gertrude Marion Nokes, CSJ

We celebrate the life of Sister Gertrude Nokes, a Sister of St. Joseph for nearly fifty-nine years. Gertrude’s life was one of service as teacher and dedicated secretary, serving Catholic Medical Center for thirty years.

Gertrude, daughter of Anne and William, had her faith nurtured in elementary school at Our Lady of Perpetual help in Brooklyn and Stella Maris High School in Rockaway. She learned early on that compassion, dedication and faithfulness were integral to developing her gifts.

As Sisters of Saint Joseph, we strive to live lives that are simple, prayerful, courageous and compassionate. Gertrude lived that every day of her life. There was never an obligation, meeting or congregational event that Trudy would miss. Weather or travel difficulties posed no obstacles. She knew what was important and she faithfully was present where it mattered. Gertrude did not do this out of blind obligation but out of the compassion she had for all persons without distinction. She cared deeply for her sisters Kathy and Dorothy and her sisters in community, most recently at Bishop Kearney Convent. Her reverence and respect for all was obvious in how she interacted with people, always considerate of their needs and views.

In her life and during her final illness, Gertrude was courageous and remained faithful, bearing suffering as did Jesus who drew her ever closer into his unconditional love. As we anticipate Easter, we are sure and certain that Gertrude now enjoys the fullness of live with her loving Go

Sister Gertrude Marion Nokes, CSJ (formerly S. Maria Cordis), died on March 20, 2015 in the 59th year of her religious life.