EDWARD NEALE

THE LATE MR. NEALE

—It is with regret that may will learn the death of Mr. Edward Neale, of Holt Wood, in the parish of Hamstead Marshall, which took place on Friday, after a few days illness. On Sunday evening deceased complained of feeling unwell, and on Monday morning the advice was obtained of Dr. Ryott, who found his patient suffering from a severe attack of congestion of the lungs. Though be rallied somewhat, he never recovered and passed away early on Friday morning.

Deceased had been in the service of the Hon. J. K. and Lady Louisa Howard nearly fifty years. But in March last the stock was sold and the land let, so that his services as steward were no longer required, and he retired from active pursuits.

In politics he was a Liberal, he refused to record his vote at the last election being of opinion that neither party sufficiently championed the cause of Protestantism to the interests of which he was extremely sensitive. Outside his business relationships, he will be known for the tenacity in which be held the Calvinist faith. He belonged to the small but interesting section of Strict Baptists, which represent religious truths conveyed in such words as "Election,” sovereignty,” ‘distinguishing grace.” He was in the habit of conducting the service in the little chapel in Back-lane, in the absence of the minister, and for many years had rarely been absent on a Sunday morning, the last time being the Sunday proceeding his death, walking both to and from Newbury.

To those who judged him only by his religious views, he would be regarded as somewhat austere and unbending, but the goodness of his heart triumphed over the seeming severity of his creed, and his neighbours found in him a kind friend and trusty councillor, one ready to exhibit his sympathy, and to whom they might at all times bring their difficulties. To the little cause in Newbury his removal will be a great loss, for since the death of the late Mr. Job Wells, Mr. Neale has been the principle support; in his home ministers of the Strict Baptist community were heartily welcomed and hospitably entertained.

He leaves a widow, an only daughter (Mrs. Caine, whose husband died a year or two since), and two grandchildren.

Deceased lived in a charming cottage at the top of Holt Hill, formerly belonging to the Toomer family, of Newbury, and is still known as Toomer’s Cottage.

The funeral look place on Tuesday afternoon. at Newbury Cemetery. The burial service was conducted by Mr. Millard, of Marlborough, an old and intimate friend. A portion of scripture was read, prayer was offered, an address was given, and Watts' hymn. “Keep silence all created things," was sung to the tune of St. Stephen's; then the body was borne to its last resting place, a short prayer being offered after the body had been lowered into the grave.

The mourners were: Mrs. Neale (widow), Mrs. Caine (daughter), Mrs. Grover (sister), Mr. A. Neale (brother), and Mrs. Neale, Mr. A. Thorne (nephew), etc., etc.

Several beautiful wreaths. sent by relatives and friends, were placed upon the coffin which was of polished oak, with brass furniture, and brass plate inscribed “Edward Neale, died August 4th, aged 67."

Lady Louisa Howard sent her carriage. Mr. Millard will preach on Sunday morning the little chapel at Back Lane, with special reference to the deceased.

Newbury Weekly News and General Advertiser - Thursday 10 August 1893