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Obituary—The death took place on Monday at 13 North End, Higham Ferrers, of a well known and highly respected native of the borough in the person of Mr. William Parker, at the age of 69 years. The deceased gentleman was born in the house in which he died, and had lived there all his life. He was a staunch Churchman, and for several years was a sidesman at St. Mary’s Church, relinquishing that position some ten years ago through illness. Throughout practically the whole of his life the late Mr. Parker was an enthusiastic campanologist, and rang the bells at Higham Church for very many years. He also took a prominent part in the formation of the Northamptonshire Bell Ringers’ Association, and maintained his interest in the art of campanology right up to his end, although for some years past the state of his health prevented him from taking any active part in bellringing. His first wife predeceased him 21 years ago and he re-married last December, his second wife surviving him. He leaves in addition three daughters and two sons to mourn their loss. The late Mr. Parker worked in Mr. Thos. Sanders’s currying works for over 50 years. The funeral took place yesterday in the cemetery, the first portion of the obsequies being conducted in St. Mary’s Church by the Rev. H. K. Fry (Vicar), who also officiated at the graveside. The coffin was of polished elm with brass fittings, and bore the inscription:-
WILLIAM PARKER
Died April 12th 1915
Aged 69 years.
The mourners comprised Mr. Edward Parker (son) and Mrs. William Parker (widow), Mr. and Mrs. W. Gutteridge (son-in-law and daughter), Mr. T. P. Gutteridge and Miss Frances Gutteridge (grandchildren), Mr. C. Howes (son-in-law), Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Morris (nieces), Mr. and Mrs. A. Adams (step-son and step-daughter). The remainder of the family are residing abroad. The coffin was borne by two fellow workmen and two of St. Mary’s bellringers. Wreaths subscribed for by the late Mr. Parker’s fellow employees at Mr. Thos. Sanders’s were carried by the two oldest workmen of the firm next to the deceased gentleman. These wreaths were subsequently placed on the grave, with other beautiful floral tributes to the memory of the deceased. Whilst the funeral was proceeding a muffled chime was rung on the bells of St. Mary’s
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