Charles, Mary Ann (nee Owen) (1824-1903)

Transcription of Obituary In the Christian Messenger

Mrs. MARY ANN CHARLES was born at Welshpool in the year 1824, and died at Forden, May 15th, 1903, in the 78th year of her age. Her membership with our church commenced in the year 1847. This was at a period when we had many difficulties to contend with, and much opposition to face; yet for 66 years our sister continued faithful, and, as time passed, and changes took place, her Christian character matured, and became more powerful for good.

She was married to Mr. Thomas Charles in the year 1846, and as they were of one mind and heart in things Divine, they have been as one in membership. Their life has flowed on in a quiet, humble, pure manner. With God’s blessing they have brought up a large family, the most of whom have become members of our society; indeed, it seems the continuance of our church of Trebystend depended upon their efforts. Their constancy at the class meeting and regular services, though having far to come, was admired by all who knew them. Even when age and the infirmities of life came upon her, she would be driven in a conveyance to the services. Her devoted life was a thorough preparation for the closing days. Her end was peace, as her life was pious.

The funeral service, conducted outside the house by the Circuit minister, was very largely attended, and a sense of the glory of such a life rested upon all present.

From 50 to 60 relatives followed, and a large number of friends joined the procession. With the deepest respect and love, her mortal remains were laid to rest among the hills in the quaint, ancient churchyard at Trebystend, and all appeared to feel and say: “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like hers.”

ALFRED SMITH.

Family and other information

Mary Ann Owen married Thomas Charles, a farm labourer, on 8 December 1846 at Forden, nr Welshpool, Montgomeryshire. Records identify ten children.

  • Ann (b abt1848)
  • Richard (abt1849-1929) – a farmer
  • Thomas (1851-1878)
  • John (1854-1867)
  • Mary (1855-1943) – married William Jones, a farmer, in 1881
  • Jane (b1857)
  • Elizabeth (b1862)
  • Harriet (1864-1933) – married Thomas Butler, a farmer, in 1892
  • Edith (abt1867-1943) – married James Williams, a garden labourer, in 1888
  • Emma Ruth (abt1870-1951) – married Herbert Stafford, a grocer and sub-postmaster, in 1893

References

Christian Messenger 1904/255

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

 

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