Last rites for career mourner after 200 funerals

By BRIDGET CARTER

You won't see career mourner Kevin O'Connor at any more funerals.

He has neatly tucked away his funeral outfit and farewelled a nice conversation, lunchtime savories, and an emotional church service - all the things he enjoys about funerals - because his family and friends have told him to.

The 78-year-old Timaru resident recently made the papers for being what locals describe as a "professional mourner," attending almost every funeral in town with his friend Mabel Sewell until she passed away.

Together they would scan death notices for funerals, then blend in with the crowds at the wake or the free lunch at the RSA, club or local hall, or perhaps even at houses.

He said he had been to more than 200 funerals and wakes in the last 20 years.

But the veteran funeral-goer told the Herald his family had given him firm instructions that he could no longer show his face at the services.

Mr O'Connor said it was only because he was lonely and he wanted some refreshing conversation, along with a deep respect for the dead, that saw him turn up so frequently.

"I like meeting people. I don't mind talking to anybody."

At funerals, he could have a nice conversation with both young and old. Now he relies on the local elderly citizens club and the Scottish society for company.

Mr O'Connor said he also loved a hearty church service. When he was young, he would attend church with his family.

The vicar of Auckland's St Matthew-in-the-city, the Rev Ian Lawton, said he thought Mr O'Connor went to funerals with a good, respectful attitude.

"I think that is nice. In some cultures an entire village would turn out to a funeral. "I think we have lost some of the community spirit of funerals."