Gertrude Truvillion Markham was born May 29, 1930 in Brookhaven, Mississippi to Ben Truvillion and Pearlie (Clinton) Truvillion.  She received her early education in the Brookhaven Separate School System and Alexander High School.

Gertrude married the late George Markham and that union was blessed with two sons, Melvin and Calvin Markham of Lansing, Michigan.  Gertrude enjoyed a long employment of over 40 years and retired from Michigan State University.

She had a heart that cared completely and a laugh that was contagious.  She shared her love of cooking, hosting big Sunday meals, which brought joy beyond measure, and will be forever remembered as one of life's great treasures.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, Ben Truvillion, Sr. and Pearlie Clinton Truvillion; brothers, Red Winston, of Bude, Mississippi, and Ben Truvillion, Jr., of Brookhaven, Mississippi.  She leaves to cherish her memory: sons, Melvin and Calvin Markham of Lansing, Michigan; grandchildren; brother, Augustus (Sidney) Truvillion of Baltimore, Maryland; sister, Earlene McLaurin Washington (Ralph) of Hazlehurst, Mississippi; sister-in-law, Eleanor Truvillion of Abilene, Texas.; and a host of special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Ms. Gertrude Markham will lie in repose Wednesday, March 30th, 2-6pm at Riley Funeral Home, 426 W. St. Joseph Street, Lansing, MI.  Funeral service will be held Thursday, March 31st, 11am at Riley Funeral Home.  Family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.rileyfuneralhome.com .