Scarlett, Joseph (1829-1912)

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by J.C.M.

Joseph Scarlett was born at Westleton in June, 1829, and lived there until his death on December 2nd, 1912. His mother attended the first service held by the Primitive Methodists in Westleton. As a lad of fifteen years he was converted, and for sixty-eight years he served as a preacher on the Wangford Circuit with zeal, sincerity and intelligent interest in his work. His mastery of beautiful thought and chaste language, aided by a clear, musical voice, lent itself to make his ministry of prayer a means of grace. 

He was class leader, Society steward and trustee, and as a sick visitor his services were in great demand. One of his last acts was the payment of his class money and seat rent. An agricultural labourer by occupation, he was most gentlemanly in bearing and speech, and his influence was always beneficent. The influence of his home life is evident in the fact that his children and his children’s children are members and officials of his Church. 

His last years were cheered by the wealth of esteem and affection of those who knew him, and by the help he received from the Aged Local Preachers’ Fund. The end came some-what suddenly. He was ready and joyful to go into the world of light. Rev. W. Howard conducted the funeral service, which was attended by many Circuit officials and the Vicar of the parish. A memorial service was conducted by Rev. J.C. Mantripp, at Wistleton on December 29th.

Family

Joseph was born in June 1829 at Westleton, Suffolk, to parents Joseph Scarlett, who worked the land, and Ann Woodgate. He was baptised on 17 July 1829 at Westleton.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Joseph.

• 1851 farm labourer
• 1861 agricultural labourer
• 1871 farm labourer
• 1881 agricultural labourer
• 1891 agricultural labourer
• 1901 working on farm – unable to read exact occupation
• 1911 no occupation

He married Sarah Gary, nee Markham (1818-1865). Census returns identify four children.

• James (1852-1931) – a fish dealer (1891); a mission van evangelist (1911)
• Henry (1854-1943) – a fish dealer (1911)
• Samuel (1856-1926) – an agricultural labourer (1891)
• Joseph (1859-1940) – a police constable (1881); a railway police inspector (1911)

He married Mary Ann Gooch (1824-1895) in late 1868 in the Blitzing Registration District, Suffolk.

Joseph died on 2 December 1912 at Westleton, Suffolk.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1913/411

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers