Povah, John (1865-1913)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by P.J.F.

John Povah was born at Whitchurch forty-eight years ago, and fell asleep at Tarporley, January 15th, 1913. When quite young he gave himself to God, and was all his life connected with our Church. Coming to Tarporley in 1887, he pursued the business of a printer, and allied himself closely with the work of our cause in that place. An enthusiastic worker, particularly in the Sunday School, when leaner years came he kept his trust through many discouragements, and in spite of all inducements to the contrary.

Society steward, treasurer of the trust, a local preacher for twenty-eight years, he took a keen interest in the work of the Circuit and of the Church at large, and ministers were ever welcome in his home.

Always rejoicing in the divine companionship, there was light in his sick-room, and the peace that passeth all understanding in his heart. A widow, two young sons and a daughter remain to cherish his memory and confide in his God. A memorial service in our own chapel was largely attended.

Family

John was born abt1865 at Whitchurch, Shropshire, to parents Robert Povah, a fitter (agricultural implements) (1881), and Sarah Bebbington.

Census returns identify the following occupations for John.

1881 printer’s apprentice
1891 printer
1901 printer and stationer shopkeeper
1911 compositor and printer

He married Hannah Windsor (1859-1931) in the spring of 1893 in the Nantwich Registration District, Cheshire. Census returns identify three children.

Robert Leonard (1894-1918) – a compositor & printer’s apprentice (1911); died in WW1
John Herbert (1895-1981) – a draper’s assistant (1911); a trashing machine attendant (1939)
Sarah Cissala (1897-1980)

John died on 15 January 1913 at Tarporley, Cheshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1913/997

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers