It is with sincere regret that we have to record the death, which took place on Tuesday last, of Mr. William Green, of Linslada, Rushden, the founder and chief partner in the firm of Messrs. William Green and Sons, boot and shoe manufacturers, of Queen-street, Rushden. The deceased, who was highly esteemed for his integrity of character, and for his quiet, thoughtful, and unassuming disposition, was 65 years of age. For some time he had been suffering from an illness of a painful nature and was under the care of Dr. Owen, of Rushden, and Dr. Buszard, of Northampton. Five or six weeks ago he was in Brighton for the benefit of his health, when he was taken worse, and returned home. Here he rallied a little, and subsequently went into Buckinghamshire for a change, returning to Rushden on Friday, July 26th. He gradually grew worse, and passed away on Tuesday morning about eight o’clock, leaving a widow, three sons and three daughters to mourn his loss.

Among the men who by their enterprise and industry have assisted in developing Rushden from a small village into a busy manufacturing centre, Mr. Green stands out prominently. He started in business for himself as a boot and shoe manufacturer in 1868, being thus one of the earliest manufacturers in Rushden, his contemporaries being Mr. John Cave, Mr. William Colson, Mr. Denton, and, we believe, Mr. Wm. Claridge. Commencing in a small workshop in Newton-road, Mr. Green gradually built up a large business. In 1874 he removed from the Newton-road premises into a larger factory in High-street South, opposite Wymington-road, and here he remained until five years ago, when he erected a spacious and up-to-date factory at the junction of Queen-street and Cromwell-road.

Although not a native of Rushden – being born near Bedford – the deceased had lived in the town nearly all his life. He was married in 1862, and, as we have stated, his wife survives him. For over 40 years he has been a member of the Rushden Old Baptist Church, and every worthy object found in him a generous supporter, his broad-minded and sympathetic nature ensuring a ready response to appeals for assistance.

The funeral took place this (Friday) afternoon at three o’clock, the interment taking place in the cemetery. The Rev. F. Martyn, of Northampton, officiated. The chief mourners were:-

Mrs. Green, widow of deceased.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. K. Green, son and daughter-in-law.

Mr. and Mrs. Walter Green, son and daughter-in-law.

Mr. W. F. Green, son.

Mr. and Mrs. Hill (Hinckley), son-in-law and daughter.

Miss Ada Green, daughter.

Mr. Coe, son-in-law.

Mrs. Howe (Leighton Buzzard), sister.

Mr. Howe (London), nephew.

Mr. Wm. Kersey (Taunton), brother-in-law.

There were also present other relatives and friends, the employees of Messrs. William Green and Sons, and representatives from the Old Baptist Church. Messrs. Whittington and Tomlin were the undertakers.