Fisher, Janetta King (1872-1901)

Transcription of Obituary in the Christian Messenger

MISS JANETTA KING FISHER, of Bressingham, Diss Circuit, has been called to her eternal rest at the age of 29 years. “Nettie,” as she was familiarly called, was born at Ratcliffe Bridge, Lancashire, in 1872, and removed with her parents, Mr. and Mrs.  K. Fisher, to Bressingham the following year. Very early in life she attended Sunday school with her mother, and chiefly under parental influence learnt the way of life, and was recognised as a juvenile member of Society. Her highest joy was in God’s house and service, and though very weak, often pain-stricken, and almost blind from birth, she was the light and joy of the home, frequently undertaking the part of comforter to others, always being able to see the silver lining to the darkest cloud. Unable to engage in much public work, yet the services in school and sanctuary were rendered bright by her ability as harmoniumist, which office she gladly filled till her translation to the heavenly choir. “She hath done what she could.” Humility, patience, faith, and love were plants of Divine Grace which blossomed in her life, and shed their perfume to the last. The word “death” was not in her vocabulary, it was always “going home.” “If anyone asks where I am,” said she, “tell them I’m safe in the Promised Land”; while she urged her parents not to fret, but rather to think of her as singing in Heaven. There was an entire absence of melancholy in her dying chamber. “Read me the 103rd Psalm,” she intreated; and while her father was reciting that precious Scripture her failing voice ran ahead quoting the sacred words with overflowing joy. Calling her loved ones, she exclaimed, “I’m now going,” and repeated the well-known lines –
“I’m a pilgrim bound for glory,
I’m a pilgrim going home;
Come and hear me tell my story,
All who love the Saviour, come.”

Then placing her pale consumptive-wasted hands in those of her dear parents, she bade them “Good-bye” and fell asleep in Jesus on the morning of October 7th, 1901. The funeral was conducted by Rev. J. Prouton, Circuit Minister. Many relatives and friends met at the house, and fulfilling the desire of the departed one, sang over the corpse hymn 58 from “Sacred Songs and Solos.” The cortege then wended its way to the Connexional Chapel, which was filled with mourners and sympathetic visitors from far and near. The interment took place in the Parish Churchyard, the Rector performing the indoor part of the service and the Circuit Minister the outdoor. A brief address was delivered, and a hymn sung at the grave. A memorial sermon was preached on October 20th by the Minister from Rev. xiv., 12-13.

J. PROUTON.

Family

Janetta was the daughter of James William King Fisher and wife Rhoda. James was a carpenter (1881) and builder (1901). Census returns identify Janetta as their only child.

References

Christian Messenger 1902/351

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

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