THE LATE MRS JOHN KERR

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LVI, 15 June 1925, Page 4

THE LATE MRS JOHN KERR

On Wednesday, June 10, there died near Wakefield, a lady-—Mrs John Kerr —who had long been well known and deeply respected in the distinct, and whose record as a settler will be equalled by few of the present day. Mrs Kerr was the widow of the late Mr John Kerr, who predeceased his wife by some thirteen years. She was born in Canterbury, and married at Greenpark, near Christchurch. After a few years Mr and Mrs Kerr removed to Brightwater, where was the husband's old home; later on they again removed to Pigeon Valley, and were for many years connected with the sawmilling industry, proving useful, kindlynatured and deeply respected residents. Du ring these years a large family of thirteen children was reared, and -of these eight sons and two daughters survive. J:or the last few years Mrs Kerr has lived quietly, in rather frail health, near Wakefield, where many will remember her friendly acts and kindly nature. After a rather long illness she passed away quietly- at her home on \Vcdnesday, and was buried on Fridaymorning in St. John’s Churchyard. Wakefield. The surviving sons and daughters are Mr John Kerr of Opouri Valley: Mr Ernest Kerr, of Mangamahoe; Mr Alex Kerr, of Takaka; Mr Leonard Kerr, of Wai-iti: Mr Hugh Kerr, of Owen Junction; Mr Arthur Kerr, of Takaka; Mr Frank Kerr, of Kiwi; Mr Lawrence Kerr, of Waverley; Mrs Joseph Eves, of Wai-iti; and -Mrs George Bennett, of Wanganui. There are also no less than 62 grandchildren and three great grandchildren in this fine family. Another son, Mr Walter Kerr, died of sickness during tiie late war. Though scattered by their occupation through a large part of New Zealand, nearly all the sons and daughters were able to be present at their mother's bedside at the end.