Iris K. Herne

AKWESASNE – As the sun gently graced the morning skyline, Iris K. Herne, 69, started her journey back to the Spirit World with the love of her family at her side.
Iris was born in Malone on August 3, 1955, the daughter of the late Charles D. and Harriett (McDonald) Herne. She was a 1974 graduate of Massena High School and continued her education at Canton ATC and later earned her Associates Degree in Early Childhood from Mater Dei College.
Iris had a great love for children and was passionate about their care. She worked in various departments within the St. Regis Mohawk Head Start, retiring after 30 years of service. She was communicant of St. Regis Catholic Church, Kateri Circle, Akwesasne Death Benefits, and proudly fostered several children from the community. Iris was also a master crafter, making quilts, crocheting, and beading were just some of her talents. Never having children of her own, she immersed herself in the lives of her godchildren, nieces, nephews, and their families – continuously attending sporting events, plays, and concerts.
Iris is survived by her sisters, Florabell Anderson of Akwesasne and Rena (Edge) Smoke of Akwesasne; her brother, Sherwood Herne of Nevada; her chosen daughter and caregiver, Mahlon Smoke of Akwesasne; her god children, LeighAnn McDonald and Arnold "Bee" Casey; her chosen sisters, Marion Parker and Theresa Swamp; her chosen brothers, Carson, Lincoln, and Raymond Swamp and Kurt Delong; her nieces, Reva (Mike) Barbara, Rhea Anderson, Brenda (Mike) Sweitzer, and Retha Senke (John Garrow); several great nieces and great nephews; and her beloved canine companion, Dusty.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother at birth, Nelis Herne.
Friends may call at the Akwesasne Homemakers beginning at 12:00 PM Thursday until 1:00 PM Friday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday 2:30 PM at St. Regis Catholic Church with Rev. Jerome Pastores, officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Akwesasne.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may consider donations to be made in her memory the St. Regis Mohawk Health Services Outreach Program.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where friends may share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.