OBITUARY

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXVII, Issue 19, 13 May 1909, Page 739

OBITUARY

MRS. FRANCOIS NARBEY, SEN., AKAROA.

There passed away on April 23 (writes an occasional correspondent) one of the oldest residents of Akaroa in the person of Mrs. Francois Narbey, sen. She had enjoyed good health till a year ago, but since has been gradually failing. Her maiden name was Mary McGee, and in 1851 she came out to Lyttelton with her father and mother, two sisters, and a brother. When they left the ship they walked over the Peninsula till they came to Long Bay, where they resolved to make a home, and started dairying. The work was carried out under the greatest difficulties, but they were very hard-working and persevering. In 1856 deceased was married to Mr. Francois Narbey, sen., and from that time forth the pair worked hard, and did their full share in making the Peninsula o land of happy homes. They were noted for their hospitality, and no weary traveller was allowed to pass without rest," refreshment, and words of encouragement. Mr. Narbey was prosperous as the years went on, and bought his present homestead, and afterwards purchased an estate from Mr. Lyons. They were blessed with a family of eighteen children, twelve sons and six daughters. Of these four sons died about thirty years ago, but the rest are all alive and well. Six of the sons are married, and there are fifty-six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Narbey died at the ripe age of seventy-four years. Cheerful, unaffected, and hospitable, she won the respect and esteem of all who knew her. Full of love and charity for her fellow-creatures, she did all the good she possibly could, and passed away universally loved and regretted. She died fortified by the rites of the Church, and surrounded by her sorrowing husband and children. They mourn the' loss of a devoted wife and loving mother. The funeral, which took place after Reqitiem Mass at St. Patrick's Church, Akaroa, was one of the largest seen on the Peninsula. Rev. Father Bonetto conducted the burial service and spoke 'very feelingly on the edifying death f the deceased, which he said must have been a great consolation to her relatives. — R.I.P.