Matthews, Ivy Lance (1893-1911)

Transcription of obituary In the Christian Messenger

IVY LANCE (Topsy), the only child of Mr. and Mrs. G. Matthews, of Rodbourne Cheney, in the Swindon Second Circuit, passed to her eternal rest, after many months of suffering, on Monday, July 24th, at the early age of seventeen and a half years. The family associations go back to the earlier days of the old Brinkworth Circuit. Upon their settling in the village of Rodbourne Cheney, Mr. and Mrs. Matthews opened their house for Primitive Methodist services. The work has grown until we have now a vigorous village cause, worshipping in a pretty and commodious sanctuary. The growth of the church has proceeded concurrently with the life of the dear girl now called away. She loved its services, and delighted in her work as Sunday School organist, a post she regularly and punctually filled until her health gave way.

Cradled and nurtured in the best influences, she has been always in the fold. Her bright presence and eager attention made her a helpful element in the services. She displayed considerable intellectual strength. Her musical gifts were exceptional. She made rapid advancement in her scholastic work, and would have matriculated unusually early had illness not prevented. She gave much attention to the subject of botany, and her collection and sketches of wild flowers were sent by the Principal of the Swindon Technical School to India, where they now form part of a museum collection.

Her life seemed to promise great usefulness. But it was not to be. The symptoms of consumption appeared, and after a long illness she has succumbed. Amidst the sympathy of the entire village she was interred on July 28th, the teachers and scholars following with the mourners. A service was conducted in our own church by the Rev. S. A. Barron, the vicar of the parish assisting at the grave-side. Her earthly existence has been brief but beautiful, and its unfolding is proceeding in the higher life.

S. A. B.

Family and other information

Ivy was the only child of George Henry Matthews and Amy Gardner. She was born at Rodbourne Cheney, Wiltshire, in 1893.

George worked as a railway clerk (1901). Later, he was Assistant Overseer of the Poor (1911).

References

Christian Messenger 1912/159

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers