Allison, Robert (1851-1912)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by F.G. Wallis

Our Bethel Church, Grimsby Second Circuit, has suffered a severe loss in the decease of Mr. R. Allison on May 8th in his sixty-first year. His conversion, in youth, meant whole-hearted consecration to Christ, and through the succeeding forty-three years he highly prized and diligently attended the means of grace. He became a class leader in 1876, Sunday School teacher in 1870, and two years later was appointed secretary. In secretarial work he was almost ideal. His love of method and order, his strict attention to detail, his punctuality and diligence, coupled with his urbanity and kindness, made success in this department certain. He was also President of the Christian Endeavour.

In 1879 his name appeared on the local preacher’s plan. His knowledge of Connexional usage, and his ability in debate made him a valuable asset in the business. meetings of the Circuit. He was a systematic and liberal giver. He loved his Church, refusing civic honours that he might serve her interests. He leaves behind a sorrowing widow and five children. The interment in the Scartho Cemetery was conducted by Revs. C. Mathison, G.W. Meadley, J.J. Alderson and F.G. Wallis.

Family

Robert was born in 1851 at Grimsby, Lincolnshire, to parents Israel Allison, a railway gateman (1861), and Jane Troon.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Robert.

1861 scholar
1871 no occupation
1881 timber merchant’s clerk
1911 saw mill and timer merchant

He married Mary Ann Moss (1852-1934) in the spring of 1876 at Grimsby, Lincolnshire. Census returns identify five of seven children.

Ernest William (1877-1959) – a timber salesman (1911); a wholesale meat salesman (1939)
Hetty (1879-1957)
Wilfred (1882-1919) – a stationer (1911); died at Military Hospital, Grimsby
Flory (1884-1958)
James Harry (1889-1969) – a timber merchant’s clerk (1911)

Robert died on 8 May 1912 at Grimsby, Lincolnshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1912/832

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers