Overton, William (1867-1947)

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Primitive Methodist Magazine 1921

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Primitive Methodist Magazine 1921

Early years

William was born in 1867 at Hope in Worthen, Shropshire, to parents James and Mary Ann. James, a lead miner, was a local preacher for over forty years.

The 1881 census shows William working as a lead ore dresser.

William made an early decision for Christ and served as a lay pastor before entering the ministry.

Ministry

William was ever the evangelist, and his chief aim was to bring others to a knowledge of the saving truth. The pulpit was his throne, and he gloried in the effective presentation of the Gospel. Serving chiefly in towns, he experienced a fruitful ministry. A wise administrator and faithful pastor, he was affectionately referred to as ‘the bishop’. He had a friendly spirit and was loved by young and old alike. His passion was to serve.

Family

William married Louisa Panter (1870-1928) in the spring of 1894 at Worcester.

William died on 3 February 1947 at Luton, Bedfordshire.

Circuits

• 1890 Brynmawr
• 1895 Southport III
• 1898 Sleaford
• 1900 Leicester II
• 1904 W Bromwich
• 1907 Ashton Under Lyne
• 1911 Stockport II
• 1915 Abertillery
• 1920 Cardiff II
• 1926 Luton II
• 1934 Luton (Sup)

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1921/190; 1929/369

Methodist Minutes 1947/142

W Leary, Directory of Primitive Methodist Ministers and their Circuits, 1990

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers