OBITUARY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 7 August 1931, Page 2

OBITUARY

MR JOHN GRIFFITH

Mr John Griffith, a well-known citizen residing in Waimea street, who was yesterday about as usual, passed away last evening after a few hours’ illness. The late Mr Griffith was born in the Waimea, his early life being spent at Wai-iti. For many years he was employed on the Nelson Railways in connection with the maintenance staff. Upon retirement some 14 years ago he, with his wife and daughter moved into town. Although privileged to get only a primary education he read extensively and became a proficient local preacher in the Church of Christ, in which he actively worked up to the last. For years lie had given a monthly address at the Public Hospital and, also, under the old pondilions, foolc regular services at the Mental Hospital. As a superintendent of the Bible School at Spring Grove he gave long and meritorious service. He was a great lover of children and took pleasure in working until recently under the Nelson system of Bible teaching in the city schools. The late Mr Griffiths was in his 83rd year, hut his physical vigour and activity led his relatives and friends to hope lie would he spared to them for some years longer. He married Miss Elizabeth Dron, of Spring Grove, who is left a widow after 59 years of happy married life. The family are: Mrs N. Win, Spring Grove; Mrs Holland, Stratford ; Mrs W. Blue, Nelson; Miss Griffith; Messrs John (of Sydney), George (of Auckland), William (Riwaka), and James (Murchison). One son, Garfield, was killed in the Great War. The late Mr Griffith and his wife have for years voluntarily visited local church members unable to attend the ordinary services, the deceased’s bright and optimistic spirit peculiarly fitting him for this work. The sympathy of a wide circle of friends all over the Dominion will be extended to the widow and family.