Gertrude Nicholson

Born June 17, 1925 in Kintogher, County Sligo, Ireland on the family farm in the shadow of Ben Bulben mountain, Gertie was the second of six children born to John and Brigid Currid. Her father tragically passed away when Gertie was only 8 years old, leaving her and her siblings to be raised by her mother and paternal aunt on the family farm. Due to her exceptional scores on a national civil service exam, and in aid of the family’s financial situation, Gertie left home at the tender age of 16 to live and work in Dublin, where she thrived and met many new friends. Over the years, she fondly recounted memories of her time working at the GPO and socializing with friends during that period of her life.

In 1958, Gertie left friends and family behind to emigrate to New York to reconnect with the love of her life, Michael Nicholson, whom she married in White Plains, New York on June 30, 1961. In White Plains, Gertie thoroughly enjoyed her work for Nationwide Insurance where she dazzled colleagues with her stellar math skills, but she ultimately chose to remain home with her children. Gertie and Michael spent much of their free time with family and friends, and were active volunteers with the Irish clubs throughout the New York metro area, principally those related to their beloved home County of Sligo. She loved Irish music and dancing and was an avid reader. In her later life, she often would read 2 books at once; her “upstairs book” and “downstairs book.”

Gertie’s greatest joy, however, came from raising her children, and spending time with her grandchildren. Nothing made her happier than when her grandchildren came to visit, which they did often until the very end. Remaining mentally sharp even at her advanced age, she would regale the family with anecdotes and memories from years gone by, including the occasional and terrific old scary Irish tale, which would mesmerize the listener.

Gertie was also a very faith-filled person, who watched daily mass on television in her later years when she was unable to attend in person. She prayed daily and sought the intercession of God, Mary and the saints for others in need. Her list of intentions was long and legendary.

Gertie is survived by her sister, Rita Devins of County Sligo, Ireland, and her children Michael (Joan) Nicholson, Marion Nicholson and Sheila (Danny) Cavazzi, all of Stamford, Connecticut and her 5 grandchildren, Conor, Liam and Kyle Nicholson, and Gabrielle and Brendan Cavazzi, her sisters-in-law Ena Currid and Norah Nicholson, and her many nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly. She was predeceased by her husband, Michael, her sisters, May Currid and Florrie McGowan and her brothers, Jim Currid and John Joe Currid.

Calling hours for Gertrude will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 2900 Summer Street, Stamford, CT 069054304. A funeral mass will occur Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. Leo Parish, 24 Roxbury Rd, Stamford, CT 06902. A graveside service will occur Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 575 Hillside Ave, White Plains, NY 10603.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Diocese of Bridgeport Seminarian and Vocations Drive or the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.