Ball, James (1814-1899)

Transcription of Obituary In the Christian Messenger

JAMES BALL, Woolaston, Lydney Circuit.- In the death of Brother James Ball the Woolaston society has lost one of its most esteemed and useful members. Brother Ball was born at Woodside, Woolaston, March 1st, 1814. Until he was about 28 years of age, religion was a matter about which he seems to have had little thought. He, however, was the son of a godly mother, who in addition to praying for her son’s conversion, placed in his reach, and encouraged him to read, religious literature. Such efforts of pious parents are generally blessed to the good of their children, accordingly when Bro. Ball was about 28 years of age we are informed of his conversion to God in a Bible Christian chapel.

The reality of his change of heart was seen in his after life, particularly in his efforts to bring others to the enjoyment of the same salvation he possessed, and being a man of strong will and fine physique, these qualities, sanctified by Divine grace, difficulties that would have appalled others had little effect upon him.

From some cause – probably that of there being no Bible Christian Chapel near his residence – Brother Ball – became a member of the Primitive Methodist Connexion, and in 1862 he and others missioned Woolaston. In 1863 there is a record of his giving to the minister seventeen shillings, this being the first money of which we have any record in connection with the Woolaston Society.

From the time of his becoming a member with us, to the day of his death, he was a most devoted servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a trustee of the chapel and paid great attention to his duties as such, as a class leader he always gave remarkably wise counsel, and was an example to the members. He was always appreciated as a preacher. Many believed the message he delivered and turned to the Lord.

The closing years of Brother Ball’s life were marked by that confidence in God, and peace of mind, that characterised him in former years. He retained his interest in the chapel and society, and when the writer visited him he always made inquiries relative to the society. We always found it a pleasure to visit Brother Ball in his illness; his confidence in God was an inspiriation to us. He died June 2nd, 1899, and has entered the rest which remaineth for the people of God.

COLSON HIGGS

Family and other information

James worked as a woodman.

He was married to Sarah (abt 1805-1874)

James married Louisa Reeks (abt 1816-1890) in late 1874 at Woolaston, Gloucestershire.

James married Hannah Griffiths (b abt 1842) in early 1891 at Woolaston, Gloucestershire.

James was buried on 6 June 1899 at Woolaston, Gloucestershire.

References

Christian Messenger 1900/31

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

 

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