OBITUARY.

Dunstan Times, Issue 2963, 14 April 1919, Page 2

OBITUARY.

(Contributed ) By the death of Mr J. E. Stevens, which occurred on Monday evening last, there passed away to his long rest one of Clyde’s oldest and most respected citizens, and one whose name for nearly fifty years has been a household word in Central Otago. The late Mr Stevens arrived in Clyde from Southland in 1872, he and Mrs Stevens having been appointed Master and Mistress of the Clyde School, positions which they occupied together until 1908 when Mrs Stevens retired. Mr Stevens remained in charge until 1910, thus occupying the position of Headmaster of the School continuously for 38 years During that long period the school was maintained at the highest pitch of efficiency, a signal proof of his success as a teacher being seen in the number of Education Board scholarships won by his pupils, who thus became entitled to the benefit of secondary education, it is also worthy ol note in this connection that no householders’ meeting was ever held without those assembled expressing by resolution their confidence in both Mr and Mrs Stevens and their appreciation of the excellent manner in which the school was being conducted. The following, for Instance, is an extract from the Committee’s report adopted by the householder’s meeting in 1902 : In conclusion vour committee desire to express their satisfaction with the results of the labours of the teaching staff, Mr and Mrs Stevens headmaster and mistress respectively. The School maintains its usual standard of elficiency and excellence and the children are at all times orderly and respectful. Your-committee would take the opportunity of congratulating _ Mr and Mrs Stevens upon'Tiaving attained their thirtieth year of efficient and painstaking services in connection with the Clyde School. Such a long and honourable association with one school is probably unique in the annals of Educational history in New Zealand and reflects the utmost credit upon both. During that period. Mr and Mrs Stevens have seen many boys and girls leave their charge, to make their own way in the battle of life, and it must be exceedingly gratifying to them to see and know that not a few of them, as men and women, are now creditably occupying positions of responsibility, trust and usefulness in our own Colony and in parts beyond the sea.”

When the time came for Mr Stevens to retire from the practice of his profession, the Education Board expressed its appreciation of his long and faithful services to the cause of Education, by passing a highly complimentary resolution to that effect. The esteem and respect of the

community found expression in a public social which was in all respects a remarkable success Mr Stevens was the recipient of a handsome presentation, contributions to which had been made by ex-pupils from all parts of the Dominion and from Australia, a notable feature being the accompanying letters which invariably expressed the highest esteem and affection for “ the Master,” Mr Stevens, however, j3id not confine himself solely to his professional duties. Almost immediately on his arrival in Clyde he identified himself with all the local institutions. For many years he acted as Organist and Choirmaster at the Anglican Church, his musical attainments being of a high order, and in the absence of the Vicar he

frequently officiated, with much acceptance as Layreader, these duties being performed as long as health permitted. As a member of the Hospital Committee, to which he was

J soon appointed, he took an enthusiastic interest in hospital work, and his splendid services for the sick and suffering will be long remembered by a grateful public. For a long time he occupied the position of Treasurer, a position for which he showed a special aptitude. His

balance sheets were a model of neatness and accuracy. He joined heartily in the movement which resulted in the erection of the present creditable and up to-date hospital buildings. The affairs of the Athenaeum and Public Library also claimed his attention, and here again Mr Stevens, in his various capacities as Chairman and Treasurer, zealously promoted the best interests of these institutions. All kinds of sport had his whole-hearted support, both in time and substance. For many seasons he was captain of the old Clyde Cricket Club, cricket being a game in which he particularly excelled and of which he was passionately fond. After he retired from scncol duties Mr Stevens devoted himself to gardening, and by his skill and taste in that direction made his home one of the most attractive in the district

The late gentleman is survived by

his widow, three daughters, and seven sons, all of whom are married and settled in good positions in various parts of the Dominion, One daughter, Mrs Mayo, resides in Canada. To Mrs Stevens and family the heartfelt sympathy of the whole district is extended.

The funeral was held at Clyde on Wednesday last, the cortege being followed by a large number of people from all parts. The funeral Service was conducted by the Rev. Mr Stephens both at the Church and grave.