OTAUTAU.

Otago Witness, Issue 3614, 19 June 1923, Page 27

OTAUTAU.

June 15.—A memorial service to the late Mr J. J. Dfesney, of Invercargill, was conducted in the Methodist Church on Sundayevening, June 10. by Rev. R. Richards'. The pulpit was appropriately draped in black, and the “Dead March” in “Saul” was impressively played by Miss Harrington, the organist. In the course of his remarks, Rev. Mr Richards referred to the fact that Mill esney had been a local preacher since he was 18 years of age. He had been connected with tile Methodist- Church for 40 years, in 30 of which he had occupied positions of trust. He had studied and successfully- passed all his examinations for the ministry, the strict medical examination preventing him from entering that calling owing to an injury- to his knee. He was passionately fond of music, and for 10 years was connected with the Invercargill Leet Street Methodist Choir, and also laboured in the Sunday 7 School. He had also occupied the pulpit in the church at Otautau on numerous occasions. He was a capital speaker, his outstanding characteristic being a winsome personality. He took a prominent- part in the prohibition movement, and v.-jrs a life-long and honoured member of the Order of Kechabites.. In closing Mr Richards said they had lost a trusted friend, and their sympathy and prayers would go out to the widow and sorrowing family in their bereavement. Obituary.—Mr Joseph Beck Taylor, who died at Invercargill on Monday, was wellknown in this district, having spent most of his life in Aparima. Of a genial disposition, he was respected by all with whom he came in contact, and figured prominently ln the Birehwood Hunt as a game follower of tlie hounds, at various times acting as huntsman and whip. He did his “bit” in the Great War, and on hie return took up poultry-farming in Invercargill, and, although not enjoying good health of late, still kept at his occupation. The funeral took place on "Wednesday, a large number following the cortege to pay their last respects. The service at the grave-side was conducted by Mr W eir.—The death took place on Tuesday at Dalmorvcn Hospital of Mr George Davies, a resident cf Eastern Bush, at the age of 53 years. Deceased was born in Wellington, and, after spending some time in Oemaru and Herbert, removed to Wairio at 18 years of age. After a period of four years he took up land at Eastern Bush in partnership with liis brother Edward, this being severed on his marriage, when he took up fanning on his own account. He leaves a widow and 10 of a faimly to mourn their loss, and to these is extended the sympathy of a large circle of friends. The funeral took place at Eastern Bush on Thursday. Football. —The Riverton v. Otautau Senior Banner match on the Recreation Ground on Wednesday was witnessed by a large crowd of spectators, and was tiie best game seen in Otautau this season. The teams were fairly evenly balanced, the local team holding a slight advantage, their backs and forwards being a little superior to the visitors. The final whistle went with the sec-re 9—5 in favour of the home team. Mr A. C. Mills controlled the game. Golf. —A number of golf enthusiasts met recently for the purpose cf forming a club. Consideration of the project was deferred until it was ascertained w-hether suitable grounds could be secured. Mr Fraser has granted the use of his property, and it is anticipated there will Ire a strong membership when the club is formed. Schooi Affairs.—At the monthly meetingof the School Committee the head master reported that the average attendance for the past month was 218, tire roll' number being 236. The scholars had been successful at the Winter Show, gaining- seven first and three second prizes. It- was decided to hold a “Paddy’s Market” and school concert on June 28 and 29. Entertainments. —The concert io celebrate tlie twenty-first anniversary of the Methodist Church in Otautau was a success. A firstclass programme was presented and the items greatly enjoyed. Rev. J. 11. Haslam gave a short, racy address, after which votes of ■thanks were passed to tlie visiting performers from Invercargill, and to all who had assisted in making the concert the success it was. The dispensing of supper concluded a very enjoyable evening.—The Territorials held a very enjoyable dance in the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, at which there was a good attendance. Mr Jellyman supplied capital music, and Mr G. Hope made an efficient M.C. A good supper was handed round.