The funeral took place on Monday of the late Mr. Henry Sparrow, builder, of Rushden. Mr. Sparrow, who was 64 years of age, had resided for the most part of his life in Rushden. He was in business for many years as a builder having erected several large buildings in Rushden. In the year 1896 the Rushden Master Builders’ Association was formed, chiefly on the initiative of Mr. Sparrow and he was unanimously elected their first president. That office he honourably filled for six years, during which time the association became quite an important institution in the town. An all round business man and sportsman, Mr. Sparrow not only looked after the general welfare of the association but was always delighted when entertaining his colleagues to a day’s fishing or an outing. On such occasions he would be the life and soul of the party, none of whom were allowed to be dull in his presence. Up to the day he was taken ill he was one of the most regular attendants at the meetings of the association. He took a keen interest in the Conservative movement in Rushden, and was a thoroughly genuine man in all his dealings. He leaves a widow, two sons and a daughter, and many friends who will greatly miss him.

There were many tokens of sympathy shown with the relatives of the late Mr. Sparrow on Monday when the funeral took place. A service was conducted in the St. Peter’s Church by the Rev. P. J. Richards, Vicar Designate of the new parish. Mr. Richards also conducted the service at the graveside.

The Chief Mourners

were Mr. J. Sparrow (son), Mr. H. Sanders, Mr. C. A. K. Green, Mr. Will Sanders (nephews), Mr. Reg Green, Mr. Don Green, Mr. C. W. Barker (friends). At the church the cortege was joined by members of the Rushden Builders’ Association, including Mr. E. Whittington (President), Mr. W. G. Wilmott (Secretary), and Messrs. F. E. Preston, T. Wilmott, H. Goodwin, T. Swindall, F. Caswell, C. E. Bayes, J. H. Walker, A. T. Nicholls, R. Marriott, W. Mole, and J. Harrison.

The coffin was of polished oak with massive brass fittings and bore the inscription:

HENRY SPARROW,
Died, Nov. 27, 1913,
Aged 64 years.

The grave was lined with chrysanthemums and ivy, the work being done by Messrs. Seckington.

The Weaths

Included the following:-

In affectionate remembrance of our dear Father from his sorrowing wife and children.

In loving memory of dear Uncle Harry from Mercy and Charles.

To dear Harry from his loving sister and family.

With deepest sympathy from the Rushden Master Builders’ Association, E. Whittington (President); W. G. Wilmott (Secretary).

In loving memory of dear Uncle from Catholeen, Charles and family.

In memory of our esteemed friend from Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Barker.

Sincere sympathy from the New Wymington tenants.

With deepest sympathy from the directors and members of the Conservative Club, Rushden.

The funeral arrangements were admirably carried out by Messrs. Clark and Sanders.

Mrs. H. Sparrow and family wish to sincerely thank all the many kind friends who have shown sympathy with them in their very sad bereavement.

77, Washbrook-road,
Rushden, Dec. 2, 1913.