Sharpe, Richard (1843-1915)

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Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by G.T.T.

In the death of Mr. R. Sharpe on May 31st, 1915, Peterborough Second Circuit has lost one of its most devoted and active officials. For fifty years a member, over fifty years a local preacher, one of the first class leaders in connection with the Cobden Street Society, and practically all his life a member of the choir, he did his work and left an enduring fame. Among the young, in the class meeting, his genial, hopeful disposition endeared him to all. 

The last months of his illness were marked by great weakness and suffering; but amid it all he retained his confidence in Christ, and his last hours were bright with the assurance of his Master’s presence. His body was laid to rest in Peterborough Cemetery on June 3rd.

Family

Richard was born in the spring of 1843 at Walton, Northamptonshire, to parents Thomas Sharpe, who worked the land (1851), and Susan Taylor. He was baptised on 16 April 1843 at Paston, Northamptonshire.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Richard.

• 1851 scholar
• 1861 agricultural labourer
• 1871 collector
• 1881 PM local preacher
• 1891 Prudential Assurance agent
• 1901 assurance agent
• 1911 caretaker, Primitive Methodist Church

He married Clara Ann Handley (1840-1922) on 24 December 1865 at the General Baptist Chapel, Peterborough, Northamptonshire. They had no children.

Richard died on 31 May 1915 at Peterborough, Northamptonshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1915/829

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers