Frances Ernwood

Frances Mary Ernwood (née Lawson),“Kitty", peacefully passed away with her sister-in-law Maureen Shinnick by her side on, Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Kitty was born on June 13,1944 to her loving parents Charles Lawson and Frances (née DeBow). Her nickname was given to her by her Dad, after a popular song of the time, “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes”.

Kitty grew up in Northeast Philadelphia and graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School, class of 1962.

Kitty had many careers in her lifetime including secretary, home health care, and working for the IRS. Her favorite job was full time Mom, not only to her own children and stepchildren, but to whom ever needed her loving care. 

Kitty was a lover of the Arts-music, theater, dance and art. She appreciated beauty in all forms. Kitty was an avid gardener,and loved to nurture all kinds of plants and animals, especially cats. Kitty loved wild bird watching and was quite good at recognizing different bird songs. Kitty also loved to learn by reading. It was so interesting to have long conversations with her over a good cup of tea.

Kitty was challenged with devastating illnesses and dementia for the last 10 years of her life and handled it with such grace and poise. She enjoyed all of her visitors and was still moving to the music up until her passing. Kitty was a devoted wife to late husband Theodore Ernwood and still missed her late sister Barbara (Edward) Dunn.

Kitty is survived by her brother Charles (Gail) and her sister Patricia Maxwell, her first husband Walter Wood, and their children Michael, Lisa (Jim) Peacock and Colleen. She was the cherished step-mother to Catherine (Chris Young and Elizabeth (Joe) Eagono. Kitty was the loving grandmother to Jacqueline (Pat) Theckston Amanda, Evan, Charles, Kurt, Nathan, Abigayle, Theodore, and Quinn. She was the proud great grandmother to Payden, Pearse, Phinean, Waylon, Leonardo, and Peyton.  Kitty was also well loved by her many Nieces and Nephews.

Due to the winter storm and weather conditions funeral services have been relocated.

Family and friends are invited to attend Frances’ viewing on Tuesday, February 24th from 10:30-11:30 AM at Our Lady of Peace Parish / St. Mary’s R. C Church, 32 Carroll Ave., Williamstown. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:30 AM. Interment will take place at Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan Hospice at Samaritannj.org. This amazing organization provided so much loving care for Kitty during her final years. Including music therapy, massage therapy, religious support, nursing, social services care, and supplies. Their tireless attention to Mom’s needs was amazing. We cannot thank them enough.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frances Ernwood, please visit our floral store.