Gibbeson, John (1830-1916)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by John Taws

In the death of Mr. J. Gibbeson, of Guide Post, at the advanced age of eighty-six, the Ashington Circuit has lost a generous supporter and another link with the past. Born at Earsden, in the North Shields Circuit, in 1830, early in life he came under the influence of Joseph Spoor, and consecrated his life to Christ and His Church.

While yet young he removed to Guide Post to fill a responsible position in the coal-mining industry, and was highly esteemed by his employers and greatly beloved by his fellow workmen. He was a trustee of the present beautiful building, the representative of the Quarterly Meeting, besides being the superintendent of the Sunday School of the adjacent village of Choppington. He was large-hearted, preserving to the last a genial spirit born of a long Christian experience and fortitude.

He passed peacefully away after a few days’ illness on February 8th. His remains were interred in the Choppington Churchyard by the Revs. J. Taws and J.C. Sutcliffe in the presence of a large gathering.

Family

John was born in 1830 at Earsdon, Northumberland, to parents William, a mason’s labourer (1851), and Mary.

Census returns identify the following occupations for John.

1851 coal miner
1861 coal miner
1881 coal miner
1891 retired miner
1901 retired miner
1911 retired overman coal colliery

He married Sarah Simpson (1833-1910) in the summer of 1856 in the Tynemouth Registration District, Northumberland. Census returns and birth records identify five children.