Kathleen Marie (Murray) Devanna

Devanna, Kathleen M. (Murray), aged 90, died at home in Andover on December 6th. Wife of the late Robert Devanna. She was predeceased by her parents Edward and Elizabeth (Quigley) Murray and her brother Edward Murray. She is survived by loving nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as a large network of friends. 

 Kathleen attended Bates College and received her nursing degree from Malden Hospital.  Kathleen began a life of service answering President Kennedy’s call to enlist in the Peace Corps in 1961 serving at the Moloki Leprosy Settlement and later at the Culion Leper Colony in the Philippines. She truly believed in the Peace Corps motto “the toughest job you will ever love”.  

She later served her country as Chief Flight Nurse during the Vietnam War.  From 1980  thru 1984 Kathleen was based at Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Kathleen retired after 23 years having received commendations and citations throughout her years as well as the prestigious George E. Schafer Trophy award.   She remained active throughout her retirement as a volunteer within the community of Andover. Kathleen was a member of the Council of Aging in Andover, The Senior Center Wellness Clinic, a mentor to college students pursuing Social Work degrees and she volunteered at The Bancroft Elementary School. 

Kathleen's Funeral will begin from the Funeral Home on Saturday, December 12th at 9:30am.   A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Theresa's Church, 63 Winter Street (Rte. 62), North Reading at 10:30am.   Interment with military honors will take place in Forest Dale Cemetery, Malden.   In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Special Olympics at give.specialolympics.org 

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