DEATH OF MR. JOHN STEPHENSON SMITH.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 2188, 28 March 1874, Page 2

DEATH OF MR. JOHN STEPHENSON SMITH.

There will not be a person in New Plymouth but will read with regret to-day of the death of Mr. John Stephenson Smith, who died on Thursday last, at the age of sixty-two years. It was known to many that he was in failing health, bat no ono thought a few weeks sinoe that he would so soon be removed from amongst as. Mr, ff. Stephensou Smith arrived in this Colony by the ship ' Poktn,' early in ISSO, and soou after entored into business in New Plymouth. On the retirement, in 1859, of the late Mr. W. Gray from the postmastership here, Mr. Smith was appointed, w<htoh cdSco he held till 1861. During the war (and aftorwards) in his position as postmaster, no inconvenience or trouble did he think too great iv his endeavours to oblige tho public. On relinquishing fbat office in 18G4, he went again into business, but was appointed in 1865 Crown Lands Commissioner, which position he held till his death. Mr. Smith was also the Sheriff of tho Province, and a Jastioe of the Pence, He uever took any aotive part in public life, but as a private gentleman be was universally esteemed. His unfailing courtesy and kindness of dispossition were qualities that endeared him to a very large circle of personal friends, who sympathise with his family io their bereavement. We learn that the funeral will take place on Monday afternoon, at half-past four o'clock, when the settlers will follow the remains of one who waß deservedly respected to their last restiegplace.