St Remigius Church was full for the service with many people who have moved out of the village returning to share their memories of Mary. I think the best way I can report on the service is to reproduce the piece I have tonight sent to local newspapers and put on my village web site. So this is in memory of Mary.
A life full of love, caring and devotion was reflected on at a service of thanksgiving for the Rev Mary Kerslake, who died on September 16th, in St Remigius Church, Hethersett.
A packed church heard of her life of friendship and commitment and involvement in numerous village groups in Hethersett, Little Melton and Great Melton.
“She always had a twinkle in her eye and time for everyone no matter how busy she was. She particularly loved children and always made them feel special,” said her son John Kerslake.
He spoke warmly of his mother’s talents as a teacher, artist, musician and a born organiser which saw her taking an active part in numerous groups including the Mothers’ Union, Hethersett Dementia Support Group, MacMillan Cancer Support, Little Acorns which she founded, Christian summer schools and the church life of the three parishes.
Her other son, Jeremy, spoke of “a life well lived and one spent in the service of others.”
“She gave so much to her husband, her children, her grandchildren and was a friend to so many and a servant to the wider community,” he said adding that after retiring from teaching she officiated as an ordained priest at numerous weddings, christenings and funerals.
Friend and fellow churchman, the Rev Christopher Mallett, spoke of “a life that epitomised love and a generous nature.”
“She loved everyone, especially children. I marvel at where she could find the energy to be so active in so many things. She had a great input into the lives of Hethersett, Little Melton, Great Melton and the wider community with her get up and go attitude. She always had time for people and made everyone feel special,” he said.
The service was conducted by the Rector, the Rev Derek McClean who referred to Mrs Kerslake as “perceptive, loving and fun to be around.”
“She touched so many lives and was a wonderful wonderful woman. We will miss Mary but celebrate her life and thank God that we have had the privilege of knowing her,” he said.
The opening prayers were led by former Rector the Rev Di Lammas, husband Harold gave a Bible reading and the prayers of intercession were led by the Rt Rev Alan Winton, Bishop of Thetford.
The committal took place in All Saints’ Church, Little Melton, and was followed by a reception for family and friends at Little Melton Village Hall