Colton, Joseph (1836-1913)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by S. Bates

When Joseph Colton passed to “the Homeland” on Monday, June 2nd, Spring Gardens Church, Doncaster, lost one of its oldest and most highly-esteemed members and officials. Born at Blythe, near Retford, August 10th, 1836, in course of time he became one of our earliest members at Blythe. Removing to Doncaster, he took an active part in Sunday School work for many years, but it was as a Class leader that for over fifty years our brother found his highest delight.

A few years ago he was stricken with blindness, which trial he bore with Christian fortitude and unwavering trust in God. He rose above the limitations of his blindness, and was almost as constant as before at the means of grace. Above all Joseph Colton was a saintly man. He adorned his home with his goodness. Some months ago failing health compelled him to take his bed. Now he has joined the saints. On June 4th the funeral service in the Spring Gardens Church was conducted by Revs. W.D. Cox, J.W. Pattinson and S. Bates.

Family

Joseph was born on 10 August 1936 at Blythe, nr Retford, Nottinghamshire, to parents John Colton, a schoolmaster (1841), and Hannah Briggs. He was baptised on 30 August 1836 at Blythe Wesleyan Methodist chapel.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Joseph.

1851 farm servant
1861 labourer & coke burner
1881 platelayer
1891 general labourer
1901 navvy
1911 no occupation (blind at 71)

He married Emma Marshall (b1841) in late 1859 in the Doncaster Registration District, Yorkshire. Census returns and birth records identify of six children.

William Marshall (1859-1938) – a journeyman blacksmith (1881); emigrated to USA in 1881
John (1861-1884) – a reporter (1881)
Elizabeth (b1864)
Ann (1866-1946) – a dressmaker (1911)
Sarah (1868-1929) – married Frederick Clifford, a coal yard labourer (1901), in 1899
Alice (1872-1954) – a dressmaker (1901)

Joseph died on 2 June 1913 at Doncaster, Yorkshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1913/834

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers