Irish, Elizabeth (nee Steel) (1839-1910)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by Wilson Eccles 

Mrs. (Elizabeth) Irish was nearly seventy years connected with our society at Tadcaster, Yorks. She was married in 1860, and for half a century her husband (who is the society steward) and herself were always among the best workers. Twenty-five years ago the writer used to meet with her in class, and well remembers at once the fervency and practicalness of her religious experience at that time. Rarely was her place vacant at any service, Sunday or week-day. 

Her best service was rendered at tea meetings and in the refreshment stalls of bazaars. She was highly respected by all who knew her, and beloved by those who knew her best. Her family rise up and call her blessed. They all brought comfort to her, and one of them, Mr. Wm. Irish, is a useful local preacher at Grimsby. 

For a few years her health had not been quite satisfactory, but no danger was apprehended. On July 16th, 1910, however, she suddenly died. Her remains were interred at the Tadcaster Cemetery, Rev. F.G. Wallis officiating, who also preached an impressive memorial sermon.

Family

Elizabeth was born in 1839 at Tadcaster, Yorkshire, to parents Richard Steel and Martha Wheelhouse.

She married William Irish (1836-1923), an engine driver at a brewery (1871)and later a corn miller and grocer (1891), in late 1860 in the York registration District, Yorkshire. Census returns identify five children.

• Martha Ann (1861-1952) – an unemployed domestic servant (1881); married George Albert Gowers, a brass finisher (1891), in 1888
• Mary (b abt1864) – married Henry Atkinson, a solicitor’s clerk & cashier (1891), in 1889
• Harriet (1865-1941) – married George Foster Trotter, a domestic coachman (1901), in 1892
• Selina (1867-1959) – married Matthew James Shipman, a brewer’s traveller (1911), in 1891
• William  (1870-1949) – a miller’s clerk (1891); a cashier (1901)

Elizabeth died on 16 July 1910 at Tadcaster, Yorkshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1910/992

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers