Brighton: Sister Gertrude Skelly, RSM (M. James Edward) was called home by God on January 9, 2019 during her 74th year as a Sister of Mercy. Sister Gert, a parishioner of St. Patrick’s, Owego, entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1944. She studied at Nazareth College receiving a BS in Secretarial Science and a Minor in Economics. After teaching first grade at St. Charles Borromeo School, Greece, she taught in the business departments at Our Lady of Mercy HS, and Notre Dame HS, Elmira for many years. She then returned to her home parish and was Administrator/Teacher at St. Patrick’s School, Owego. Following her teaching career, Sister Gert became an Accountant at the Episcopal Church Home where she ministered for twenty-one years. She became a Stephen Minister for St. Louis Parish while also working in the finance office of the Sisters of Mercy, followed by being a Volunteer at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish and Notre Dame HS, Elmira as well as a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Elmira for six years. A great joy in her life was being able to share her love of business, especially accounting. Survivors include nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of Mercy.

Friends are welcome Friday, January 11 from 4 to 7 PM at Mercy Center, 1437 Blossom Road, where her vigil service will be held at 7 PM. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 12 at 10:00 AM at Mercy Center. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Donations in her memory may be made to the Sisters of Mercy.