Esther M., Mary E., & Dr. William McKenna Fund

Esther M. McKenna was born in Wakefield on April 24, 1919. She came from a family that placed a strong value on education and hard work. Miss. McKenna graduated from Wakefield High School with the class of 1937 and went on to further her education at the Bryant & Stratton Business School in Boston. She then took a job at the Wakefield Savings Bank. Where she remained for the next 37 years. Her family meant everything to her, as did her church. She was a lifelong member of St. Joseph’s Church. Her concern for others was always evident throughout her life. At St. Joe’s she was a founding member of the Social Services Club, and she helped develop the Mass for shut-ins in addition to many other programs. In addition to people, she loved animals as well. She spoke fondly about her grandfather’s bulldogs and other family pets. As a child she entered the Wakefield Fourth of July Pet Parade with her rabbit, “Snowball,” for which she was awarded a first prize ribbon. She and her brother continued to own a dog for many years while living at their Richardson Ave. home.