Smith, Reuben (1854-1915)

Transcription of Obituary In the Christian Messenger

The New Sawley Church and the Long Eaton Circuit lost a most valuable worker by the decease of Reuben Smith, on July 28th, 1915. He was a native of Sawley, and became a member of our Church at the age of sixteen years, and for forty-five years was a diligent and enthusiastic toiler for his Lord. As Society Steward, Sunday School Treasurer and Teacher, and Trustee of more than one Circuit property, he served faithfully. His love for the lambs of the flock was intense.

Of him it could be said, “He was a faithful man, and feared God above many.” He was never to seek when wanted.

The Sunday School authorities expressed their appreciation of his worth by placing a chaste marble tablet over his sepulchre. He made the most of his endowments by consecrating them all to “the Master’s use.” Self was effaced, and duty was transmuted into privilege, sacrifice, and joy.

“ The memory of the just is blessed.”

Family and other information

Reuben was born in 1854 at Sawley, Derbyshire, to parents John and Anne. John was a boatman.

Reuben worked as a railway sheet repairer.

He married Elizabeth Ann Brown (1859-1920) on 21 May 1877 at Sawley, Derbyshire. Census returns identify four children.

  • Mary Ann (1879-1948) – married George Sabin, a furniture dealer (1911), in 1898
  • William Harry (1882-1952) – a lace maker
  • Reuben Harold (1884-1965) – a lace maker
  • Frederick Edward (1888-1894)

References

Christian Messenger 1916/124

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

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