Obituaries

Edna Mae (Kenneth) Ahern, 105, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, at Lincoln Retirement Villa in Fremont, CA.

She was born on December 6, 1920, in Minoa, NY, to Edwin and Evelyn Kenneth. After the early passing of her mother, Edna and her beloved sister Elizabeth (“Bette”) were raised by their grandmother, Julia Pilchen, whose guidance and care helped shape the strong woman Edna would become.

Edna earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Oswego State College in 1942, as a member of the first graduating class required to complete four years of study. She went on to share her love of learning with young students, teaching elementary school in Cobleskill, NY and then later as a substitute teacher for the Fremont Unified School District for 10 years.

While at Oswego, Edna met Thomas Carroll Ahern. Following World War II, they were married on February 9, 1946, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 70 Blessed years. The couple first made their home in Buffalo, NY, until November of 1959, when Thomas, who served in the United States Navy, was transferred from the Niagara Falls Naval Air Station to Alameda Naval Air Station in California. Edna often joked that the two things she liked most about California were “the two roads that led out of it.” An East Coast girl at heart, she deeply missed her sister Bette, with whom she shared a close and enduring bond and visited often. In time, however, Edna adapted and went on to spend the next 67 years as a proud Californian.

Edna was a devoted sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, and she was dearly loved by all who knew her. A devout Catholic, she lived her faith through service, volunteering with the Legion of Mary at Holy Spirit Church and supporting her husband’s involvement in the Knights of Columbus. She also served for many years as the Sunshine Lady for the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, faithfully sending cards to members to mark birthdays, illnesses, and moments when a kind thought was needed.

Affectionately known as “GM” and later “GGM,” Edna was adored by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She delighted in their visits to her home on Westwood and later at Lincoln Villa. She was known for her gentle routines—always fitting in “40 winks”—and for the loving phrases her family will forever carry with them, especially her signature: “I love you, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.” GM also had a sweet tooth and was happiest enjoying her favorite treats, including Häagen-Dazs ice cream bars, coconut shrimp, fruitcake, and just about any dessert shared with family.

Edna was predeceased by her husband, Thomas, in 2016, and by her sister, Bette Fennelly, in 2012. She is survived by her son, Thomas K. (Marilyn) Ahern of Liverpool, NY; her daughter, Mary Ellen (Bob) Meade of Reno, NV; her grandchildren, Shannon and Heather Ahern; Shawn (Michelle) Meade, Bobby (Daria) Meade, Michelle (Andy) Weber, and Colleen Meade; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The Ahern and Meade families extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Lincoln Retirement Villa for the many years of compassionate care provided to both Thomas and Edna.

A Funeral Mass and celebration of Edna’s life will be held in the spring. Her final resting place will be with her husband, at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in Edna's name.