Reasey, William (1840-1900)

Transcription of Obituary In the Christian Messenger

WILLIAM REASEY—a member of the Metropolitan Police Force, was converted under the labours of Mr. D.L. Moody in his second London mission in 1883, from which time he has been a devoted member of New Road, Battersea Society. About the time of his conversion he also became a pledged abstainer. After his retirement from the active service of the Force, his Sabbaths were fully given up to Christian work and worship. Four times a day, with rigid punctuality, could his presence be reckoned on. He was among the few who have for years held the fort in New Road amongst debt, dirt and drink, and the loss of him is great. His absence during a whole Sunday raised an alarm, and on inquiry being made he was found to be suffering with congestion on the lungs, which proved fatal on January 10th. A friend visited him on her way to the week evening service, and asked if he had any message to send. ‘Yes,’ he said, ‘tell them I’m sorry I can‘t be with them, but that I’m holding on to that which passeth all understanding. And ask them from me, as a church and people, to be much more in earnest.’

T.C.

Family and other information

William was baptised on 25 October 1840 at Vernham-Dean, Hampshire. His parents were Charles, labourer, and Elizabeth.

William married Fanny Coster (abt 1836-1918) in early 1864 in the Andover Registration District, Hampshire. Census returns identify four children.

• Sarah Matilda (1864-1909) – married Alfred Samuel Tyler, a carpenter, in 1884
• William (1866-1944) – a commercial clerk (1911)
• Alfred (1869-1952) – a grocer’s assistant (1901)
• John (abt1872-1896) – an engineer’s labourer (1891)

William died on 10 January 1900 at Clapham, Surrey.

References

Christian Messenger 1900/191

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers