Elizabeth G. (McKenney) Chavier, 87, of Fairhaven died December 20, 2014 at Beth Israel Hospital after a brief illness.
She was the wife of the late Rev. Dr. Manuel Chavier, Sr.
Born in Everett, the daughter of the late Minn and Bertha (White) McKenney, she lived in New Bedford and Fairhaven most of her life.
Mrs. Chavier assisted her late husband in the founding of the International Church of the Nazarene in New Bedford where she was a Sunday School teacher, choir member, organist and president of Rose Ministry. She served as delegate to Missionary Convention, Mission Education Secretary of New England District, Director of Vacation Bible School. She was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.
She was formerly employed as a teacher with the New Bedford School System for many years until her retirement. She was a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association.
Mrs. Chavier enjoyed cooking and entertaining.
Survivors include her son, Rev. Manuel "J.R." Chavier, Jr., and his wife Almeda, of New Bedford; a daughter, Ruth Gomes, and her husband Rev. Edmund Gomes, of Lynchburg, VA; a sister, Lavinia Sclis; 4 grandchildren, Joshua Gomes, Priscilla Bramlett, Jessica Chavier and Monica Chavier.
She was the sister of the late Eunice McKenney, Manuel McKenney and Conrad McKenney.
Her Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, December 24th at 10 AM at the International Church of the Nazarene, 284 Pleasant St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, December 23rd from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In Lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the International Church of the Nazarene Community Center Fund, 286 Pleasant St., New Bedford.