Crouch, Samuel J.P. (1847-1912)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by W.G. Softley

There was profound regret throughout Manea Circuit when it became known that Mr.. S.. Crouch, the Circuit Steward, had suddenly passed away, at Horningsea, on September 27th, 1912. Shortly after his conversion in 1869 he became a local preacher and was soon recognised as a man of intense evangelical force. He was regarded as one of the wisest counsellors of Manea Circuit, and frequently represented the Circuit at District Meeting and Committees. He attended both District Meeting and Conference of 1911.

His interest in Christian work made him equally at home visiting the aged, the sick and dying, leading a Junior C.E. meeting, a Sunday School class, or a Band of Hope, and advocating the cause of missions and hospitals. Energetic, and successful as a farmer, he was also “fervent in spirit,” delighting in prayer and communion with God. Loyal to his Master and his Church, whose institutions he generously supported, “he was never known to refuse a helping hand to any deserving cause.”

The interment in Manea Churchyard, on October 1st, was conducted by Revs. J. Metcalf, W. G. Softley and G. Bell, who also preached a memorial sermon on October 13th

Family

Samuel was born abt1847 at Manea, Cambridgeshire, to parents David Crouch, who worked the land (1851), and Sarah Gilbert.
Census returns identify the following occupations for Samuel.

1861 agricultural labourer
1871 butcher and coal merchant
1881 farmer 48 acres land employing 2 boys
1891 farmer
1901 farmer
1911 farmer

He married Hannah Holder Sarah (1844-1891) in late 1870 in the North Witchford Registration District, Cambridgeshire. Census returns identify two children.