Photo courtesy of MC CANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME
Washington Township, New Jersey
1958 - 2018 (Age 59)
On March 20, 2018, Christine “Chris” McKenna, age 59, was born in Queens, NY on October 18, 1958. Beloved daughter to Bohdan Pestrak and the late Irma Pestrak, cherished sister to Irene Pestrak, the late Michael Pestrak, Helena Pestrak and Mary Pestrak. Loving mother to her son, Timothy McKenna (Katie), daughters Heather Dunbar (Matthew), Jennifer Swayngim (Sean), and Kathryn McKenna. Dearest grandmother to her grandbabies, Chase Henry Swayngim, Elizabeth Mae McKenna and expected baby girl Dunbar.
A resident of Washington Township, NJ, Chris worked as a teacher at Gloucester Catholic High School where she enjoyed being a part of the yearbook committee and taking part in various school related activities. Chris had a passion for taking photographs, volunteering for the Faith Formation Program at St. John of God, playing music at church services, and trips with her students at GCHS and Kairos. Above all else, Chris loved her precious time with her family, friends and sweet grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Friday, March 23rd from 6 to 8 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. On Saturday morning, visitation at St. Mary’s Church, 426 Monmouth St., Gloucester City from 10 to 11:30 AM followed by Mass at 11:30 AM. Interment New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. John of God Community Services Faith Formation Program, 1145 Delsea Drive, Westville, NJ 08093. Please memo: Christine K. McKenna or donate online at http://www.sjogcs.org
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Christine “Chris” McKenna. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City Ph:856-456-1142
Cousin, though it's been many years, i remember you singing to Timmy as a baby and you always took time to make me smile. Shirley Temples still remind me of your wedding. Condolences to your family, and peace knowing your song still bring light to all who listen.
Sue capo
April 03, 2018 | New Port Richey, FL
Dear McKenna Family,
May God bless your family in this time of sorrow. We will never forget that during a time when it seemed like no one in the community would open their arms to our son Nick, the Faith Formation Program and Chris welcomed him and made him feel like he belonged to something special. We will also never forget how Chris took time out of her busy schedule to volunteer her gifts and talents every Saturday so that Nick could learn about our faith and receive the...
Nick and Daniela Cerulli
March 25, 2018 | Turnersville, NJ
No words could ease the pain felt right now. I'm wishing peace and comfort to the family. Cherish her loving memories and hold them close to your hearts!!!
Nakia Vailes
March 24, 2018 | W Hempstead, NY
Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us everyday
Brenda Bailey
March 23, 2018 | East Meadow, NY
Those we love don't go away. They walk besides us everyday.
Brenda Bailey
March 23, 2018 | East Meadow, NY
So sorry to hear of the loss of Chris. Will always remember that she was the heart and the rock of your family.She was one of the kindest and sweetest person I ever knew:
Sandi S
March 23, 2018 | Sewell, NJ
Chris was a wonderful and beloved Faith Formation teacher to my son, Jon Paul. She is so loved and will be dearly missed. Our sincere condolences to the entire McKenna family during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Corman Family
March 23, 2018 | NJ
McKenna Family
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris. She was such a generous and loving person. My family got to know her through my working together with Chris at St. Mary School. She always was a great go to person for advice and treated my children, Justin and Maggie, like they were her own. She was a great source of inspiration and we all loved talking to her. Such an Angel and a wonderful Christian leader. Keeping you all in our prayers.
Deborah, Michael , Maggie...
Deborah Heinsman
March 23, 2018 | FRANKLINVILLE, NJ
As the GCHS yearbook photographer, we worked with Chris since she took over as the moderator years ago. She was a wonderful person to work with, and so dedicated to representing the students, staff, and Christian spirit of Gloucester Catholic. That spirit will be greatly missed. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Lors are with her family and the whole school community.
Jim Carroll
March 23, 2018 | Springfiled, NJ