Elizabeth Kenney

Elizabeth (Liz) Jeanette Austin Kenney

Elizabeth (Liz) Jeanette Austin Kenney was born June 8, 1930 in Newburyport, MA to Benjamin and Lena Grenier Austin, she passed from this world on October 26, 2020.

Mom raised six children; daughters Fae Harper and husband Bobby, Inez Johnson and husband Jerry Johnson, Brenda McKnight and husband Dr. Cyrus McKnight, and Lenore Warden and husband Michael; sons William (Billy) F. Kenney and Austin Kenney and wife Evelyn; twelve grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents Benjamin and Lena Austin and her two granddaughters Seresa and Brandi Capps.

Liz waitressed at Roswell Inn through the 60’s and 70’s and drove a school bus for many years. Some of her volunteer efforts included Girl Scout leader, VFW, 4-H leader, Rape Crises phone line and The American Red Cross which she served on the board from 1991 thru 1995 and was recognized multiple awards for her volunteer hours.

Mom returned to school later in life and in 1977 graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a Bachelor of Science in Education and Honors in Psychology. She was a member of the Psi Chi (The National Honor Society in Psychology). In 1981 she earned a Master of Education from Eastern New Mexico University.

Mom taught many young adults from across New Mexico through the Roswell Job Corps Center as and instructor of Personal Health and Sex Education from 1986 thru 2006. She was also a Certified Driver’s Education Instructor and received recognition from the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy for Defensive Driving Course from 1981 to 1995.

She attended St. Peters Catholic Church for decades and then joined the Jehovah Witness congregation later in life.

Mom lived a very active and full life; she will always be loved by her family and will be greatly missed.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Nursing staff and CNA’s that cared for mom during her time at Mission Arch Care Center; we are forever grateful for your care.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, November 7, 2020 at South Park Cemetery.