Gertrude E. Capers

Gertrude Elizabeth Maddox Capers was born on January 1, 1929, in Princess Anne, Maryland, to the late Edward and Thresia Celeste Maddox. She was the first of four children and the only daughter, growing up alongside her three brothers, Edward, William, and Matthew.

Gertrude was a woman of remarkable intelligence, determination, talent, faith, and service. She received her early education at Greenwood Elementary School and later graduated from Somerset High School. She continued her education at Maryland State College, now the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), where she majored in Business Administration and Music.

Even as a young student, Gertrude demonstrated an exceptional ability to learn and a desire to remain progressive and knowledgeable. She developed an interest in computers and expressed a desire to learn computer programming and computer repair. Her skills and trustworthiness were recognized early during her college years, when she was asked by professors to type examinations, papers, and other confidential materials. After graduation, she continued using her talents to type and prepare forms, major publications, and theses for students.

Music was another special gift that Gertrude shared freely with others. She loved to sing and could often be found humming or singing throughout the day. Her beautiful voice was a constant part of her life and continues to be one of the cherished memories she leaves with her family and friends. She was also a talented pianist.

While attending Maryland State College, Gertrude met and married Robert Milton Capers, who was completing his student teaching at the college. From their union came three beloved children: Romila Capers Taylor, Robert Thomas Capers, and Retha “Penny” Capers Carr.

Gertrude devoted her entire professional career to the State of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service, where she faithfully served for more than 40 years. Through the years, many people came and went, but Gertrude remained a steady and dependable presence; a true staple of the organization. Her dedication, knowledge, work ethic, and commitment left an enduring impression on those who had the privilege of working with her.

Above all, Gertrude was a woman of great faith.

She was a woman who believed in the power of prayer. Those who knew her would readily say, “Gertrude could get a prayer through.” Her faith was not simply something she spoke about; it was evident in the way she lived, loved, encouraged, and served others.

Throughout her life, people were naturally drawn to her gentle and beautiful spirit. It was not unusual for someone she had never met to stop her and comment on her beautiful spirit or the angelic glow they saw in her. Gertrude carried a warmth and presence that touched people wherever she went.

She was raised in Metropolitan United Methodist Church and later attended St. Elizabeth Catholic Church with her husband. She remained active in church life and participated in numerous church activities and organizations, including the Juliannas, Order of the Eastern Star, and additional organizations.

Her commitment to serving others extended beyond the church. Gertrude volunteered with the local Seton Center, where she helped serve the aging population, local migrant workers, families in need, and others within the community. She believed in helping people and giving of herself whenever she could.

Gertrude was also a lifetime Golden Member of the Delta Sigma Omega Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, an affiliation that reflected her lifelong commitment to scholarship, service, and sisterhood.

Gertrude also found another way to bring people together through food and love.

To some, she became affectionately known as “Saint Sweet Potato.”  Why?  Because during the holiday season, Gertrude’s wonderful sweet potato pies became a treasured tradition. Her pies were more than dessert; they were an expression of love. She shared them generously with family, friends, and others fortunate enough to receive one. And just like her prayers, her sweet potato pies had a way of bringing people together.

For those who enjoyed one of Gertrude’s pies, the memory will always be sweet. And for those who knew her well, “Saint Sweet Potato” will forever bring a smile, a laugh, and a reminder of the loving woman she was.

Following the passing of her beloved husband, Robert, in January 2002, Gertrude continued to live in the family home, surrounded by the memories and love they had built together. During the last four years of her life, she lived with her oldest daughter while continuing to visit her home, family, and friends often.

On January 1, 2026, her family and loved ones had the blessing of celebrating her 97th birthday; a remarkable milestone and a beautiful testament to a life well lived.

Many people helped with mom’s care.  Nancy Walden, who she loved, and was known as an “adopted daughter;” for many, many years, helped with her care while she was at home and during her hospital and rehab stays.  Romila and the family are very thankful for all the help she gave and longtime friendship.  To Marlo and Tammy White, Mr. Donnie LaRue, and family, there are truly no words to express our deepest gratitude for the love, kindness, and care you showed our family. Thank you for taking care of our home, checking on Mom, grocery shopping for her, and always looking out for her while she was living here. Your thoughtfulness, generosity, and willingness to be there for her meant more to us than you could ever imagine.

Please know that your kindness will never be forgotten. You were a blessing to Mom and to our entire family, and we will forever be grateful for the love you showed her. May God bless each of you abundantly for the love you gave and the kindness you shared. With heartfelt love and our deepest thanks, we are forever grateful.

A special thank you to the healthcare staff who also took special care of mom.  Thank you to Care.com, Johns Hopkins Home Health, Bayada Home Services, Dr. Susan Molinaro, Johns Hopkins Hospital, GBMC, University of Maryland St. Joseph’s Hospital, and Lorien Mays Chapel Nursing Facility

Gertrude leaves to cherish her memory her three children, Romila Capers Taylor of Randallstown, MD, Robert Thomas Capers of Lewes DE, and Retha “Penny” Capers Carr (Marcus) of Bowie, MD; six grandchildren; Graham E. Capers Hull, Katlyn Eaddy, Savannah Eaddy Torres, Mariah Capers, Micah L. Carr, Marques L. Carr, five great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, church family, sorority sisters, and all those whose lives she touched through her love, faith, kindness, wisdom, and service.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Milton Capers; her parents, Edward and Thresia Celeste Maddox; and her three brothers, Edward Maddox (Ruby), William Maddox (Betty Lou), and Matthew Maddox (Annie).

Gertrude’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, education, music, service, and love. She leaves behind not only cherished memories, but also a legacy that will continue through the generations she nurtured and the many lives she touched.

Her voice may be quiet now, but the songs she sang, the prayers she prayed, the wisdom she shared, and the love she gave will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew her.

Well done, good and faithful servant.
May she rest in eternal peace and may her beautiful spirit continue to shine through all who loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 1913 Old Virginia Rd., Pocomoke City, MD with a viewing one-hour prior.

Viewing and Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Anthony E. Ward, Jr. Funeral Home, at 30639 Hampden Ave, Princess Anne, MD, where the Delta Sigma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will perform their Ivy Beyond the Wall Memorial Service at 6:30 pm. The Interment will follow the Service on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at John Wesley, (Bowland Hill), Cemetery in Princess Anne, MD.