GISBORNE MAYORESS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20489, 25 February 1941, Page 6

GISBORNE MAYORESS

DEATH THIS MORNING MRS. D. W. COLEMAN INVALID FOR YEARS The death this morning of Mrs. D. W. Coleman, wife of the , Mayor of Gisborne, removed one who until a few years ago took the keenest interest in many organisations which had to do with the welfare of Gisborne residents. Born in Tasmania, Mrs. Coleman came to New Zealand as an infant over 50 years ago, and resided in Wellington for some time. She was married there, and in 1904 came to Gisborne with her husband, Mr. D. W. Coleman, M.P., and had resided here ever since. In 1931 Mrs. Coleman suffered an illness brought about by shock, and although it was not very apparent at first the illness gradually developed and for the past few years she had been an invalid, and thus prevented from engaging in any public activities. Wide Interests Always vigorous, Mrs. Coleman was a prominent and active member of the Salvation Army, and for many years she held the positions of financial sergeant and corps secretary respectively. Every week for many years until prevented by her illness she visited the Cook Hospital, taking great interest in the welfare of the inmates. When the Gisborne Plunket Society was formed Mrs. Coleman was a ’foundation member, and she also served on the executive committee for some years. She was a foundation member of the Gisborne branch of the Mother’s League and was its firpt president, holding this position until illness compelled her to relinquish it. Mrs. Coleman was also an active member of the Labour Party, helping her husband very much in this sphere of his work. Splendid Spirit Although she was an invalid for so long, Mrs. Coleman was never once heard to complain about her lot. Her splendid Christian spirit and character carried her right through her painful illness and even during that time many benefited by her cheery words of comfort and advice. Besides her husband, Mrs. Coleman leaves two daughters and one son to mourn their loss, Mrs. G. Robertson, Mrs. J. Brunton, and Mr. M. G. Coleman, all of Gisborne. The sympathy of her many friends and admirers will go out to them.

A service will be held at the Salvation Army Citadel to-morrow afternoon, prior to the funeral leaving for the Taruheru cemetary.