Gertrude Emily Spires, 83, of Delmar, passed away on Monday, February 18, 2019 at Delmar Nursing & Rehab Center. She was born on November 11, 1935 in Crisfield, Maryland, a daughter of the late Elton and Gertrude (Sterling) Howard. "Gertie" as she was fondly known by those who loved her, was born and raised in Crisfield. After graduating from Crisfield High School, she spent her early years working at the Five and Dime. Gertie worked at PRMC in Salisbury for 54 years, spending time as an outpatient surgery secretary and also in the medical records department. She and her husband loved to go camping and take trips to Lancaster. She also loved animals and had a special place in her heart for dogs. She is survived by her loving husband, Roy G. Spires, who she married on October 25, 1958. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Bill Howard, Elton Howard, and Ruth Cullen. A visitation for family and friends will be held at Short Funeral Home from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 22, 2019. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel at Springhill Memory Gardens in Hebron. Pastor Joe Lecates will officiate. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.