Rev. Airdry Dyson-Leask
(1929-2024)
The Reverend Airdry Dyson-Leask passed away peacefully on Friday, 19 July 2024, at Vickery Court in Invercargill at the age of 95. Born in Invercargill on May 3, 1929, Airdry discovered a love for singing at a young age. This passion blossomed into a fulfilling career as a vocalist, where, as Airdry McKenzie, she graced the stage in countless leading roles. She sang broadcast recitals throughout her life culminating in a series with the NZ Symphony Orchestra. Her children fondly remember sharing their mother's talent, joining her on stage in performance.
Later in life, Airdry moved to Rakiura-Stewart Island, where she was asked to become the Parish Priest of St Andrew’s Anglican Church, and was ordained as a priest on 29 May 1988. After serving her community on Stewart Island, Airdry eventually relocated back to Invercargill.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph Dyson and Mary Geddes, and husbands Graeme McKenzie and John Leask.
Airdry's legacy lives on in her children Glenn McKenzie (Sydney, Australia) and Fiona (Mike) Floyd (Huron, Ohio, USA), grandchildren Sarah (Alex) Igo (Lafayette, Indiana, USA) and Emma (Matthew) Bernotas (Columbus, Ohio, USA), and great-granddaughter McKenzie Igo.
A private funeral service was held per Airdry's wishes.
A celebration of life will be live-streamed on Saturday, 24 August 2024, from Christ Church in Huron, Ohio, USA.
To participate virtually contact fionafloyd60@gmail.com for her USA service, to share a message visit Airdry's tribute page at frasersfunerals.co.nz/tributes