Elizabeth Curtis Obituary 1938

OBITUARY

MRS ELIZABETH CURTIS

The death of Mrs Elizabeth Curtis, which occurred at the residence of her daughter, Mrs G. Tucker, 907 Lyall Street, Hastings, on Tuesday, marked the passing of another of the oldest identities of Hastings and a lady who was held in the highest esteem in all sections of the community.

Born in Cornwall, England, almost 83 years ago, the late Mrs Curtis was married to the late Mr John Curtis, and came to New Zealand in 1877 in the sailing ship Renfrewshire. She landed at Napier on January 4, 1878, just over 60 years ago, and immediately took up residence in Hastings, where she had resided since.

As may be imagined, Hastings was a very small hamlet when Mrs Curtis became one of its residents. She played an important part in the early history of the town, and, in addition to being one of its oldest citizens, she was one of the best-known. She had the distinction of being the oldest member of the Hastings Methodist Church congregation.

Possessed of a genial and kindly nature, she won a host of life-long friends, by whom her death will be deeply regretted.

The deceased lady had a family of 15 children, 11 of whom – four sons and seven daughters – are still living, and to them will be extended the deepest sympathy in their bereavement. She also leaves 42 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.