Coxon, Nicholas (1822-1909)

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1909

Transcription of Obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by George Heslop

On June 4th, 1909, Mr. Nicholas Coxon, of Hetton Downs, in Hetton Circuit, peacefully exchanged mortality for life at the age of eighty-seven’ years. Born at Biggs’ Main, his parents were both members of the Primitive Methodist Church at Wallsend, in Newcastle Circuit, and when very young he was a regular attendant with his mother at the class meeting and services. In his early teens he became a member and active worker in connection with our Church at Ballast Hills, Newcastle-on-Tyne. After his marriage he removed to South Shields, and thence in 1860 to Hetton Downs, where he joined the first class under the leadership of the late Brother W. Soulsby.

In 1870 he was appointed a class leader and also treasurer to the trustees, his sterling worth, his special ability, his sincere piety and devotion to his church, marking him as admirably suited for these positions, which he held from 1870 till 1884. In 1884 he decided to go to United States, America, owing to the ill-health of his wife and daughter.

After fifteen months he returned to the home country and renewed his membership with his old Society at the Downs. He was at once appointed as leader to his old class, and this position he held until two years ago, when increasing weakness compelled him to retire, having been a leader for thirty-six years. He was an ideal leader, regular in attendance, a good visitor, and a man of upright and devout character. He had the joy of knowing that his four sons and two daughters are members of the same society.

In his last illness his faith in Jesus Christ was strong, the presence of the Saviour was a constant source of joy to him. His last words were a prayer for the two sisters attending him, “The Lord bless you both.”

On Monday, June 7th, the funeral took place, and was attended by a very large number. A service was held in Hetton Downs Church conducted by Rev. Johnson, assisted by Brother George Heslop.

Family

Nicholas was born abt1822 at Biggs’ Main, Benton, Northumberland, to parents George and Jane. He was baptised on 7 July 1822 at Long Benton, Northumberland.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Nicholas.

  • 1841 tin plate worker
  • 1851 tinman & brazier
  • 1861 tinsmith
  • 1871 tinman & brazier
  • 1881 colliery lampman
  • 1901 retired tinman

He married Margaret Hudson (1819-1910) on 26 June 1845 at St Hilda’s, South Shields, Co. Durham. Census returns identify six children.

  • William Hudson (1849-1911) – a coal miner (1871); emigrated to USA circa 1880
  • John George (abt1850-1936) – a coal miner (1891)
  • Ann (1852-1933) – married Thomas Gray, a coal miner, in 1872
  • Nicholas (1854-1946) – a signalman on NE Railway (1881); a stem engine fitter 91891); a fitter (1911)
  • Margaret Owen (1857-1909)
  • Joseph (1861-1937) – a general dealer (1911)

Nicholas died on 4 June 1909 at Hetton Downs.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1909/743

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

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