Jerome, Harry (1856-1899)

Transcription of Obituary In the Primitive Methodist Magazine by Charles Lomas

The Sutton Scotney Society, in the Micheldever Station, has been called upon to suffer an almost irreparable loss by the death of Brother Harry Jerome, which took place at Sutton Scotney, on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 1899, from consumption. The illness of Brother Harry Jerome was of some four years’ duration, but more especially for the last eighteen months his sufferings were most intense, but were borne with most exemplary and Christian patience and fortitude. All that medical skill and kindly nursing could do to alleviate his sufferings was done, but to no avail.

As a boy Brother Harry Jerome had deep conviction of sin and felt his need of a Saviour; but owing to the evil influence of ungodly workmates these influences were lost for a while. But on being asked to become a teacher in the Sunday School, he taught a class of boys, but not then being a decided Christian himself, he could not long continue to teach others.

On Sunday, May 30, 1875, a camp meeting was held at Sutton Scotney, conducted by the late Rev. E Hancock, when deep and lasting impressions were made upon Brother Jerome, and that same day, in his own bedroom, he fully decided for Jesus Christ.

He at once prayed in public, joined in Church membership, attended the class meeting, and renewed his acquaintance with the Sunday School, which connection he maintained to the very last.

Soon after his conversion, the Quarterly Meeting of the Station authorised Brother Jerome to accompany Brother H. Whitcher to his appointments, and in 1877 the Rev G. Hunter put him on the plan as a local preacher. His abilities to read were small, as his education had been much neglected. In addition to which, he had to contend with an impediment in his speech. But so determined and painstaking was he to overcome these difficulties, that he actually committed his lessons and hymns to memory until such time as he could with safety read them in public.

He proved himself a most worthy and efficient local preacher, his appointments ranging from five to six Sundays per quarter, and many were saved under his ministry.

Brother Jerome gained the confidence of his brethren, as may be seen by his holding the offices of class-leader, society steward, chapel treasurer, and station steward at the time of his death.

The funeral took plaice at Wonston Churchyard on Friday, February 3rd, when over two hundred members and friends came together to show respect to one who was “an Israelite indeed, in whom there was no guile.” The burial service being taken by Revs. J. French (station superintendent), T. Savage, and C. Lomas, former ministers. Brother Jerome was borne to the grave by his brother local preachers, and so much and highly was he respected that the rector allowed the church bell to toll, while his medical attendant, Dr. Griffiths, the Rector, the Rev. F.R. Bigwither, Dr. Davis, H. Nicholl, J.P. attended.

On Sunday, February 5, Brother Jerome’s death was improved, when the Rev. C. Lomas preached from 2 Timothy iv. 6, 7 and 8, to a large congregation which crowded the chapel, aisles, and part of the schoolroom.

His example and influence will be long felt by all who had the joy of his acquaintance and fellowship. In spirit he was a peacemaker, in giving he was generous to God’s cause, always giving silver to all collections, while his home was ever open to the preachers, whether ministerial or lay.

Family

Harry was baptised on 10 August 1856 at Wonston, Hampshire. His parents were George and Jane.

Harry worked as a farm labourer, although in later years he became an insurance agent (1891).

He married Ellen Goodall (abt1854-1929) in the summer of 1878 in the Stocksbridge Registration District, Hampshire. Census returns identify one child.

  • Mary Louise (1879-1930) – married Arthur James prince, a domestic gardener, in 1899

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1901/789

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers

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