"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23

     Mrs. Gertie Mae Mavis peacefully entered into eternal rest on July 11, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, family, service, and love. Throughout her 96 years, she exemplified grace, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to God, enriching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

     Born on December 8, 1929, Gertie was the second child born to the union of Prince and Gertrude Perry. At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, establishing a personal relationship with Him that became the cornerstone of her life. Her steadfast faith served as a guiding light, inspiring her children and generations of her family to develop their own lasting relationships with the Lord.

     Gertie began her education at Booker T. Washington Elementary School before proudly graduating from Old Central High School as a member of the distinguished Class of 1947. She held the unique honor of being the last surviving Bearcat of her graduating class, a distinction she cherished with great pride. Continuing her education, she attended Texas Negro Institute, now known as Texas Southern University.

     A woman of vision and service, Gertie believed in uplifting her community through fellowship and education. She was a founding member of the Circle of Essence Book Club and one of the original founders of the Joy Makers Charity Club in 1955, where she faithfully remained its last surviving founding member. Her commitment to these organizations reflected her lifelong passion for learning, service, and empowering others.

     Blessed with extraordinary creativity, Gertie possessed many talents that she generously shared with family and friends. She was an accomplished seamstress, gifted crafter, exceptional cook, and devoted gardener. Whether creating beautiful garments, preparing memorable meals, cultivating vibrant gardens, or crafting treasured keepsakes, she poured love into everything she did. Her home was always a place of warmth, hospitality, laughter, and unconditional love.

     Her professional career was equally distinguished. Gertie dedicated many years of faithful service to the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), where she had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Truman Blocker and later in the Office of the President. She earned the admiration and respect of colleagues through her professionalism, integrity, and unwavering work ethic.

     Above all, Gertie treasured her family. She found her greatest joy in nurturing those she loved, sharing her wisdom, preserving family traditions, and creating lasting memories. Her strength, compassion, and quiet resilience became the foundation upon which generations of her family continue to build.

     She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Prince and Gertrude Perry; her devoted husband, John Mavis; her cherished grandchildren, Rodney Benson Sr. and Resha Olivier; her siblings, Doris Jackson, Charles Jackson Sr., and Lois Hill; her niece, Caroline Cobbs; her nephew, Kevin Hill; and her great-niece, Renisha Jackson.

     Cherishing her precious memories are her loving children, Lauren Yoni Benson, Susan Dawn Shepherd, and Steven Jay Mavis (Roxanna); her stepchildren, Eric Mavis (Andrea) and Carolyn Anderson (Ben); her beloved grandchildren, William Tre' Benson, Jr. (Gabrielle) and Rani Dawn Shepherd; her treasured great-grandchildren, Keawe Owens, Skylar Benson, Kimora Benson, William Benson III, Rydni Benson, Rodney Benson Jr., Jordan Olivier, and Lincoln Benson; her nieces, Rita Semont, Lorraine Williams, Ladel Bell, Benita Davis, Cheryl Hill, and Mary Jackson-Lamb (Bennie); her nephews, Kerry Jackson (Cedonia), Barry Davis (Mildred), and Charles Jackson Jr. (Kimberly); a host of beloved cousins; her cherished godchildren, Patricia Roché and Calvin Sanford; her lifelong childhood friend, Fay Helen Williams, Esq.; and countless extended family members, dear friends, neighbors, and all whose lives were forever touched by her kindness and love.

     Mrs. Gertie Mae Mavis leaves behind more than cherished memories—she leaves a lasting legacy of unwavering faith, compassionate service, enduring strength, and unconditional love. Her gentle spirit, generous heart, and beautiful example will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her influence will live on in the hearts and lives of those she so faithfully loved.