Obituary

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume XVI, Issue 4, 1 October 1927, Page 210

Obituary

SISTER CATHERINE BELCHER. There are many who will regret the untimely death of Sister Catherine Belcher. A native of Oamaru. where she had a brilliant school career, the deceased lady was beloved by all who knew her. In Invercargill her sphere of influence lay m the Southland Hospital, where she was Sub-Matron when compelled to relinquish her duties on account of illhealth. She became known to the members of the St. John Nursing Division through instructing them m Home Nursing last October. Her ability as a teacher, her tact and skill as a nurse, her gentleness and sympathy as a woman, won for her the respect and love of all who knew her. Possessed of a bright nature and a charming personality, Sister Belcher was one who never spared herself m her devotion to the lifework of her choice — the alleviation of the pain of suffering humanity. When she was laid to rest m Oamaru the St. John Ambulance Association of Invercargill sent a wreath m token of the high esteem m which she was held here, the Superintendent of the Oamaru St. John Ambulance Association placing it on the grave. Though her life was short, her memory will never lose its fragrance m the hearts of her friends, for hers was a beautiful life of service cheerfully and whole-heartedly rendered.

IN MEMORIAM. The " Pale Rider's " stolen a march on the ranks Of the Nursing Brigade — What does it mean? Why are the flowers that are fairest and rarest Plucked, while the hybrids stay healthy and green? Another's just gone her reward to inherit, Leaving a gap that twill be hard to fill; No one who knew her but honoured and loved her, Her loving deeds cling to our memory still. Gone where the shadows of life cannot come ; Where every stranger may find a sweet home ; Severed the chains that have bound her to earth, Gone to the land where the soul hath new birth. Where every stranger is gathered to God, Soul to its maker and dust to its sod ; Weep not to miss one on earth's weary shore. Earth has an angel less — Heaven one more. — By one of her Patients.