Katz, Gertrude “Trudy”

Gertrude “Trudy” Gloria Bellin Katz, beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and friend, passed away on August 31, 2024 at her Cranston home at the age of 91. She was born to Rose and Harold Bellin of Providence and welcomed by her two older brothers Albert and Arthur Bellin, who have since passed.

She graduated from Hope High School in 1951 and matriculated to Boston University where she received her associate degree in Secretarial Studies in 1953.

Trudy was married in 1956 for 37 years to her first husband and father to her four daughters, Jerome J. Katz, until his death. Trudy found love again marrying her 2^nd husband Jack Jessel in 2000, and they were together for 10 years traveling the world and making lots of wonderful memories.

Trudy was a homemaker until the passing of Jerome in 1993, at which time she took over running their business Shelby Self Storage. Trudy was active in Hadassah, a founding member of Crestwood Country Club, a prolific golfer, a fierce mahjong and canasta player, and a proud member of the “Fakawi Tribe.”

Trudy was a vivacious, whimsical spirit who enjoyed traveling, family adventures, and keeping everything organized. Trudy traveled to 5 continents, generously taking her daughters with her on adventures to Europe, Central and South America, and Antarctica. Trudy loved to cruise and made many lifelong friends on her adventures. Trudy enjoyed many road trips to Maine and New York with her “ride-or-die” girlfriends.

Trudy had a zest for life, always smiling and dancing wherever and whenever music was heard. Trudy was generous in spirit and always welcomed family, friends and pets into her home. She was always up for an adventure, a long scenic drive, a great sale, and especially coffee ice cream.

Trudy is survived by her three daughters Debra Katz MD, Elyse Katz, and Michelle D. Katz MS, RD, MPH, CHES. and her son-in-laws Dr. Michael Bienenstock and James Darrish, her grandchildren Rebecca Wolinsky MD, Jessica Wolinsky, and Sammy Bienenstock, lots of pets, and many, many friends. She was predeceased by her daughter Marcia Katz MD.

Trudy will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her as well as her strong independent children and grandchildren who carry her passion for life within them.

Trudy’s funeral service will be held at Shalom Memorial Chapel at 1100 New London Ave, Cranston on Tuesday, Sept 3^rd at 11a followed by a graveside ceremony at Lincoln Park Cemetery at 1469 Post Rd, Warwick. All are welcomed.

Shiva will be held at her home, 66 East Hill Drive, in Cranston on Tuesday, Sept 3^rd through Thursday, Sept 5^th from 2-4p and 7-9p.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations on Trudy’s behalf to Temple Torat Yisrael, Hadassah, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or the National Autism Association.

To view the pre-recorded service, please click here.