Mum was a land girl during the 2nd world war as the men had gone away to war.. Worked for Win Ferguson and her husband on a farm in Reperoa. He died of Hogdgisons disease, so mum went back as a cashier for John Courts in Queen Street, Auckland. She was there on VE day. She danced in the streets and had lots of dances and everyone sang especially Vera Lyn’s songs.

She was born 3rd September 1929 and at 10 years old was listening to the mantel radio with her mum and dad when Britian declared war on Germany.

She went to a secondary Catholic school in Remuera.

Moved to Newbury St in 1959. Before that Rangiora Ave, Lombard St before that (no longer exists)

Retired on 19 Oct 1990 after 12 years at Waikato Hospital in Hamilton as supervisor of sterile supplies department. She also worked at Melody Lane restaurant in Palmerston North.

From Ella (mother) letter: "Popular with her teachers and friends. Lovely voice and fond of music. Ella wished they could afford a piano. She has a lovely nature like grand-mother. (Elizabeth Jane Henderson)."

Mum wished to pass her thanks, prayers, and love to the following-

I want to thank all the staff at Willard Rest home for their love and care.

I have met some great people, some I loved especially.

Ethel Lucas

Cath Egden, my closest friend and her family.

Bev & Allan Budd and many more.

Lyn Braithwaite for her love and care

My beloved children and grand children, Lorene my treasure, Jim so close to my heart, Bruce thank you for being there and loved your roast meals,

Natasha my grand daughter and a beautiful girl.

Leanne and Tuesday – wish I’d seen more of you.

Derek for loving Lorene and caring for her.

Heather my beautiful grand-daughter, Robert a lovely grand-son.

The comiskey children of Tom’s. I loved you all.

James wish I’d got to know you.

Val I loved you also.

Darcy, if you are there, you were a great boss (Melody Lane)

Many friends from the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, who have stood beside me.

Jim, my first husband, I pray for you every day.

Mum wished the following for her funeral. A requiem mass was said for her by Father Thomas Sherry.

Singing or “Amazing Grace” and “Lara’s theme” from Dr Zhivago. The “Our Father” said by all. Scottish piper to play “Scotland the Brave"