LILY KENNA

1944 - 2021

LILY HERNANDEZ KENNA
With heavy hearts, we share the very sad news of the passing of our
loving Mother, Lily Hernandez Kenna. All who knew her, knew her for her kindness, love, and joyful ways. We knew this day was coming. She endured a long fight with Alzheimer's, and most recently, with breast cancer. We were blessed to have her as long as we did, and also feel blessed that when she passed away peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, March 10, 2021, she was not alone. Her beloved son, Michael, and daughter-in-law Tina, who cared for her daily, were at her side.
Born May 17, 1944 in Needles, California to Aurelio and Micaela Hernandez, Lily grew up in Needles surrounded by 12 brothers and sisters, and extended family in "Zamora Heights". She graduated from Needles High School in 1962.
Aside from short times away, Lily lived her entire life in Needles and treasured the small town. She is fondly remembered as one of the "Sisters" who graced the town streets walking around smiling and greeting people along the way.
She was preceded in death by son, Frank James Kenna; parents, Aurelio and Micaela Hernandez; her five brothers, Aurelio Jr, Joe, Dario, Edward, and Arthur Hernandez; and her two sisters, Vera DeLeon and Sally Shaver.
First and foremost, Lily was a devoted and loving mother to her daughter, Micaela (Mikki) Brown; her son, Michael Kenna Jr. and his wife, Tina; and to her daughter, Marisha Castillo and her husband Carlo. As much as she loved her children, she treasured time with her grandchildren, who were blessed to learn many life lessons from her. Lily was a fun, loving, proud, grandmother to Raechel (Brown) Evans, Ronnie Brown, Emily Brown, Caela Castillo, Abbry Castillo, Makenna Castillo, Dylan Castillo, and Madik Castillo. From a very large family, she also leaves behind many other family members. Lily is survived by brothers, Mario and Ruben Hernandez; sisters, Nina Rubalcaba, Rose Wynne, and Lucy Moore; and many cousins; niece; and nephews.
The family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to some very special people from her life. First, we praise our cousin Donna who lovingly made it possible for the "Sisters" Lily and Sally to spend their last years together, best friends til the end. Secondly, we thank the angels that served as their caregivers. Our family will be forever grateful to Pilar, Riley, Trina, Gordon and Tabitha who patiently served her with love and kindness.
Lastly, the family invites you to celebrate our mother's life. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 27th at St. Ann's Catholic Church. The Rosary will begin at 9:30 am. The funeral mass will begin at 10:00 am., followed by graveside services at Needles Riverview Cemetery. A small reception will take place at Needles Eagles Lodge immediately following the funeral services and interment.
Arrangements are under the care of Desert Lawn Funeral Home in Mohave Valley, Arizona.