Evangelist Gertie Mae Strasser

Evangelist Gertie Mae Strasser entered her eternal resting place peacefully on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Alice B. Tawes Nursing & Rehabilitation in Crisfield, Maryland. She was 88 years old. Born on April 21, 1936, in Crisfield, she was the beloved daughter of the late Hezekiah Jackson, Sr. and Nettie Cottman. Gertie Mae was the eighth of ten children, embodying the love and resilience of her large family. For years she lovingly celebrated May 19th as her birthday – until a copy of her birth certificate revealed the delightful twist that her actual birthday was April 21st.

Evangelist Strasser received her education in the public schools of Somerset County, Maryland. She was employed as a seafood worker at Byrd’s Seafood Inc., where her mornings were filled with prayer and the heartfelt singing of hymns, setting a spiritual tone for the day before the ladies began picking crabs. Later, she served as a security guard in the dormitories at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Her presence was cherished by the students, who loved and respected her. She, in turn, treated them with the warmth and care of a grandmother, often keeping them in line as if they were one of her own grandchildren.

On June 16, 1962, she united in marriage with her beloved Phillip Strasser, who she affectionately called “Babe”. Together, they worked tirelessly and lovingly to raise their six children, building a life rooted in faith, family, and dedication. They celebrated 54 years of marriage before his passing in 2016.

Evangelist Strasser was a devout woman of God whose life was a testament of her unwavering faith. She gave her life to Christ in 1967 under the preaching ministry of Apostle Margaret Johnson and joined Highway Holiness Church in 1968/69. For over 50 years, she faithfully served as the Assistant Pastor at Highway Holiness, a position she held near to her heart. She was also a cherished member of the original senior choir and devoted teacher of the Adult Sunday School. Her spiritual journey was further enriched by her graduation from seminary school, where she studied under the guidance of Bishop George A. Copeland.

In 1997, Evangelist Strasser joined the Pentecostal Assembly of Churches of Jesus Christ, Inc. under the leadership of Presiding Bishop Harry Lee, Sr., and served as the President of the Missionary Auxiliary from 2003 – 2016. Known for her vibrant presence, she could often be found in the pulpit, shouting in praise, or singing with joy, although the choir would have to give her a little assistance from time to time. Her family loved to joke that if she could, she would carry the entire house to church with her, as she was always there, dedicated, and full of spirit.

Evangelist Strasser loved to dress to impress, particularly on Sundays and special occasions. She wore a regal ensemble from head to toe, complete with an elegant church hat, decorative suit, matching shoes, and a coordinating purse – exuding the grace and sophistication of a queen.

Affectionately known as Grandmom, Mom Mom, Doll, Mrs. Gertie Mae, Aunt Gertie, or Sis. Strasser, her and her sister Mary were the heart and soul of family gatherings. She hosted Christmas dinner while Mary took care of Thanksgiving, creating cherished memories for the Cottman and Jackson families year after year. Aunt Gertie’s heartfelt prayers, which often turned into singing, were the prelude to her eagerly awaited stewed chicken and dumplings and famous candied yams—a family dinner wasn’t complete without them.

She leaves to cherish her fond memories: two sons, Anthony Jackson, Sr. (Crystal) of Crisfield and Sylvester Jackson of Rapid City, South Dakota; two sisters, Mary Jackson, and Lottie Jackson of Crisfield; one sister-in-law, Sandra Jackson of Lebanon, Virginia; 26 grandchildren; 57 great grandchildren; 22 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, play sons and daughters, church family and friends.

She joins in heaven her husband, Phillip (Big Phil); sons, Kirk Sr., Marlon (Little Phil), and Reginald; daughter, Leanore; grandchildren, Ke’Vaughn and Colton; parents, Hezekiah Sr., and Nettie; sisters, Beaulah, Elizabeth, and Jeanette; and brothers, Charles, Earl, Hezekiah Jr., and Henry.

She touched the lives of many in her family, church family and the community of Crisfield. Her presence, love, prayers, and Godly counsel will truly be missed.

A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Crisfield Academy and High School, 210 N.  Somerset Avenue, Crisfield, MD with a viewing one-hour prior. A viewing will also be held 6:00 PM-8:00 PM Friday, March 14, 2025, at Highway Holiness church, 27127 Old State Road, Crisfield (Hopewell) MD.