In an update on June 4, 2020. Seneca Nation President Rickey L. Armstrong Sr. announced another death of a community member due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
Diane Kennedy, from the Heron Clan of the New York-based tribe, passed away last weekend, Armstrong said in a video message. She was 71 years old.
“Diane spent nearly 30 years working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington before retiring,” Armstrong said. “Upon returning home to Seneca territory, Diane became involved in our nation’s government and served the Seneca people as clerk for two years.”
Diane’s death came after her family suffered another loss. A week prior, her mother, beloved elder Norma Kennedy, succumbed to COVID-19, at he age of 91.
The family’s struggles aren’t over. Cindy Mohr, Diane’s sister and Norma’s daughter, remains hospitalized with COVID-19, though she appears to be showing signs of improvement, Armstrong said.
“Our thoughts and support are with their family and with all those whose lives continue to be impacted by COVID-19,” Armstrong said.