A well-known and highly respected tradesman of Rushden passed away at “The Moorlands”, Rushden, on Tuesday in the person of Mr Samuel Knight at the age of 84 years. The deceased gentleman, who was a native of Rushden, was one of the first tradesmen in the town and carried on business as a draper for over 40 years. He commenced business in the premises now occupied by Mr Cartwright in the High-street, building these premises [121 High-street] for the purpose. Subsequently, owing to his business having largely increased, he erected the more commodious premises now occupied by Mr C H Blunsom, [39 High-street] and here he continued in business until his retirement about 12 years ago. All his life he was associated with the Old Top Meeting, serving as a member of the diaconate for a great many years during the ministry of the late Rev W J Tomkins. For over 20 years he taught in the Sunday school in connection with that place of worship. For several years past his health has been failing, although he was able to get out in his bath chair so recently as Monday last. He passed peacefully away on Tuesday morning. He leaves a widow, one son, six daughters, and one adopted daughter to mourn their loss. The Funeral took place this (Friday) afternoon, at the Rushden Cemetery, in the presence of many sympathisers. The first portion of the obsequies were conducted in the Park-road Baptist Church by the Rev W F Harris, of Winchmore Hill, London, a former pastor of the church, and the Rev H J Horn, the present minister. The coffin was of unpolished oak with plain silver fittings, and bore the inscription:- Samuel Knight Died June 8th 1915 Aged 84 years. The mourners were as follows:- Mr W S Knight (son), Mesdames R W Nunley, G L Shelton, W J Shortland, C Putnam, M C Knight, and F E Ballard (daughters), Mrs E B Bayes (adopted daughter), Mrs Wm Dear (sister), Messrs R W Nunley, G L Shelton, W J Shortland, C Putnam, and F E Ballard (sons-in-law), Mr E B Bayes, Miss Hilda Mabel Putnam and F K Ballard (grandchildren). A number of beautiful floral tributes to the memory of the deceased were placed on the grave.