DEATH AT 79 YEARS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23273, 16 February 1939, Page 15

DEATH AT 79 YEARS

. MR. R. J. ADUNGTON PROMINENT CHURCH MEMBER The death occurred yesterday at his residence in Epsom of Mr. Robert Jonathan Adlington, who for 58 years was a member of the staff of the New Zealand Herald and The Weekly News. Mr. Adlington, who retired on superannuation in March, 1931, was 79. Born at York. England, in 1859, Mr. Adlington came to New Zealand on the ship Maori, landing at Auckland on January 24, 1867. After education at the Carlton Academy, he entered the service of the Herald at the age of 14 as an apprentice, and on the

completion of his training he was appointed to the night composing staff of the newspaper After two years in this work he was transferred to the jobbing department, eventually being promoted to the position of foreman. However, following a breakdown in health, he found the duties too severe and he was given the post of assistantforeman, a position which he occupied for 35 years until his retirement in 1931.

Mr. Adlington was a prominent member of the Methodist Church and for many years was a lay preacher, superintendent of the Sunday- school, and secretary of the board of trustees for the Remuera Methodist Church. In 1887 Mr. Adlington married Miss Jane Lay bourn, youngest daughter of the later Mr Adam Laybourn. He is survived by his wife and three daughters.