WHEREAS, Gertrude Alethia Abbott, a longtime resident of Norfolk who took an active role in community affairs, died on November 21, 2012; and

WHEREAS, Gertrude Abbott, fondly known as "Sister," graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and attended Norfolk State College, now University; and

WHEREAS, Gertrude Abbott worked as an office clerk with the Norfolk Teachers Association Federal Credit Union, providing outstanding service as she helped customers with their financial needs; and

WHEREAS, Gertrude Abbott took an active role in community affairs as a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church and served as treasurer of the Presbyterian Women; and

WHEREAS, Gertrude Abbott was a familiar face in the community as a longtime member of the Lindenwood/Cottage Heights/Barraud Park Civic League and worked diligently with fellow residents to enhance the neighborhood; and

WHEREAS, a woman of many talents, Gertrude Abbott enjoyed sewing, reading, and crossword puzzles; she cooked with love, sharing her favorite recipes for delectable dishes and desserts; and

WHEREAS, Gertrude Abbott positively influenced those with whom she came in contact with her generous heart and giving spirit; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by her parents, John and Gertrude, and her brothers, Francell and Edward, Gertrude Abbott will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by her surviving siblings, Shirley, Geraldine, and Harold, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of a respected member of the Norfolk community, Gertrude Alethia Abbott; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Gertrude Alethia Abbott as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for her memory.