SERVICE TO DISTRICT

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 203, 29 August 1942, Page 4

SERVICE TO DISTRICT

LATE MRS. JESSIE FORD Well known in the Wanganui district for her kindness and help to those in need, Mrs. Jessie Ford, wife of Mr. John Hodder Ford, died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. H. Finlay (Hawera), recently, aged 79. Mrs. Ford was born in London on September 28, 1863, and before coming to New Zealand co-operated with her mother, the late Mrs. Eliza Eade in the slum area of St. George's Yard. London, where a mission was founded by the late Lord Salsbury. Later, after arriving at Wellington, she again worked with her mother, who, in 1884, was one of the first distrist nurses appointed in New Zealand. After her marriage to Mr. Ford in Sydney, Mrs. Ford returned to New Zealand and for a number of years lived in Palmerston North. She later came to Wanganui and for a long period conducted a convalescent home. Mrs. Ford became known in all parts of the district for her efficient, service and kindness. She is survived by her husband, and a family consisting of Mrs. J. Barney and Mr. J. G. Ford (Tauranga), Mr. Ernest A. Ford (Ross, California, U.S.A.), Mrs. H. Finlay (Hawera), and Mrs. W. Millard (Raurimu). There are 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Five grandsons are serving in the Army and Navy. Mrs. Ford was buried at the Old Wanganui Cemetery, a service at the graveside being performed by the Rev. Wesley Parker (Hawerah