DEATH OF A CENTENARIAN.

Auckland Star, Volume XIX, Issue 149, 25 June 1888, Page 5

DEATH OF A CENTENARIAN.

One of the oldest settlers in the vicinity of Auckland—Mr Maurice Kelly, died at the Wade yesterday morning. The deceased claims to be 104 years of age, and, although some of hia neighbours doubt this fact, still there is ample evidence that the deceased was far advanced in years. Mr Kelly was one of the first party of men who were engaged to lay out the city of Auckland, and being a far seeing man he purchased an amount of land at the Northern Shore, knowing that it must grow in valueas the township grew. Kelly became a large land-holder, and for many years baa resided in the Wade District. Unfortunately for the votaries of abstinence. The deceased was not a member of the blue ribbon order, but has been known to state that he had drunk whisky for nearly 90 years. He must have been possessed of an excellent constitution as he has, like all old settlers had to rough it pretty considerably during his lifetime. Deceased was jolly in style and very hospitable to visitors. His funeral was arranged to take place this afternoon ab the Wade, which will no doubt be well attended. The Rev. Father Gillan referred to Mr Kelly's decease yesterday evening at St. Patrick's Cathedral, and asked those present to pray for his soul.