Obituary

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 107, 7 May 1941, Page 2

Obituary

MRS. M. KEARNS The death occurred at her residence, No. 10 Carroll Street, on April 26, of Airs. Mary Kearns, widow of the late Mr. Alichael Kearns, in her 86th year after a lengthy illness borne ~ith splendid fortitude. Airs. Kearns, who had devoted her life to her family, had formed a large circle of friends in Palmerston North and Hawke’s Bay, where she resided earlier, and her passing will be regretted by many who recall her Christian piety and sterling character. Born in Bundoran, County Donegal, Ireland, Mrs. Kearns came to New Zealand with her husband and three children in January, 1880, in the ship Adamant. They landed at Napier and for a few years resided at Ormondville, and it was a recollection of pride that in their home the lirgt Mass in that settlement was held. Two or three years later they removed to Hastings, where the late Mr. Kearns was employed on the staff of Messrs. Nelson’s Tomoana works. He died.in 1925 and two years later Airs. Kearns came to Palmereton North, where she had resided ever since. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by one daughter and four sons, and the surviving members of the family are Sieter Mary Borgia (Wanganui Convent), Mrs. E. Barry, Sister A. M. Kearns (Plunket nurse), and Miss G. Kearns (Palmerston North). Until her illness prevented it, Airs. Kearns was a regular worshipper at HL Patrick’s Church, and prior to the interment on Monday last, Requiem Mass was held there by Rev. Father Keegan, pupils of the Convent Schools singing the hymns.