Gertrude L. (Monteiro) Harry, 85: Owner of Towne Thrift Shoppe

Gertrude L. (Monteiro) Harry, 85, died Sunday, Jan. 19, 2014 at Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by loving family and friends, according to Perry-McStay Funeral Home.

She was the wife of the late Louis E. Harry, Jr.Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late Pedro and Ida (Valles) Monteiro.

Gert was the owner/operator of the Towne Thrift Shoppe in East Providence for 17 years prior to retiring.  She was a member of the East Providence Senior Center.  

Throughout her life, she was very active in her community, serving as the first director of the East Providence Community Center, member of the East Providence Democratic City Committee, coach in the East Providence Central Little League, and Boy Scouts den mother.  Gert was an all-round athlete, a champion golfer and bowler.  She played semi-professional softball, and played basketball in the industrial league for Coro, Inc. 

She leaves one daughter, Jo Ann D. Harry, one son, Louis E. Harry, III, and two foster granddaughters, Paula Goncalves and Aliyha Bernardo.  She was the sister of the late Adeline Gomes, Joseph and John Monteiro.

Her funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. in the Perry-McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Ave., East Providence. Burial will be at the Rumford Cemetery.  Calling Hours are today, Thursday, 5-8 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gert’s memory made to Children’s Friend, 153 Summer St., Providence, RI 02903 or Home & Hospice Care of RI, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 would be appreciated.