Ellen Mortimer 1857 - 1931

Mrs Ellen Mortimer, wife of Mr Thomas Mortimer, of Makarewa passed away at her home on Friday 11th September 1931.  Born Ellen Swain she was the daughter of the late Mr Hodges Swain and the late Jane Punyer. She was born in Kent, England in 1857 and was one of sixteen children.

The death of Mrs Mortimer has further reduced the fast declining ranks of the old identities of Southland.  Mrs Mortimer, nee (Swain) landed in Invercargill in 1874, by the sailing ship "William Davey".  She was 17 at the time.  In September 1875 she married Thomas Mortimer, and they settled first at Collingwood and later at Makarewa.  Had she lived another day she would have celebrated her 74th birthday and was laid to rest on the 56th anniversary of her wedding day.   
Mrs Mortimer endeared herself to everyone that knew her, no-one in sickness or accident ever called on her in vain.  Hers was a life of practical christianity and sevice, a loving wife, a mother of mothers, as well as a good friend.  Her love of all that was good and becautiful extended to her garden, and with her open hand gave generously of her flowers when needed for any purpose whatever.
Her interment took place on Sunday afternoon at St Johns Anglican Cemetry, Waikiwi. The service was conducted by the Rev J. A Lush.  She was carried to her resting place by her four sons, a son-in-law and a brother.  The cortege was one of the largest to leave the district.  Mr Hayes, a shipmate on the 'William Davey' in 1874 had his flag at half-mast which the cortege passed his home in Waikiwi, North Road.
The late Mrs Mortimer is survived by her husband, five daughters, and four sons and many grand and great grandchildren.  She was predeceased by four daughter, Mina, Ettie, Rose and Florence and by her twin son, Thomas.