At the age of 87 years, Mr James Wood, of 118 Wellingborough-road, Rushden, passed away at his home last Friday, after only 10 days’ illness.

Mr Wood leaves a widow, Mrs Sarah Ann Wood, aged 88 years. They were one of Rushden’s oldest couples, and had been married for 63 years.

A native of Gt. Bookham, Surrey, Mr Wood came to Rushden at the age of 18 and was a groom for the late Mr H W Currie at Rushden House for several years. Later he was in business as Wood and Compton, boot manufacturers, and then worked for Messrs Jaques and Clark for many years, retiring at the age of 76. Gardening had since been his chief hobby, and he remained active in this until a month before his death.

For many years he was a verger at St Peter’s Church, and in earlier life he was a member of the Conservative Club.

Besides the widow, one son, Mr Walter George Wood, of 94 Wellingborough-road, is left. The only daughter, Mr H Tew, died six years ago. The only grandson is serving in France, and there is one great-grandson.

The funeral took place on Monday afternoon, and the Vicar (Rev E Hirst), conducting the service in St Peter’s Church, spoke of Mr Wood’s great devotion to the church. Mr J Lindsay Clipson, A.R.C.O., was the organist, and his selections included “O rest in the Lord.”

Mourners were: Mr and Mrs W G Wood (son and daughter-in-law), Mrs R Tew (granddaughter), Mrs L Bailey (cousin) and Mrs C Warner (sister-in-law). Mr E Bennett represented Mr Walter Wood (brother), of Gt. Bookham, Surrey, who was unable to attend.

Floral tributes were inscribed: To my dear husband from your loving wife; To dear Dad from Walter and Dot; Treasured memories of dear Gramp from Ron (in France), Gwen and little John; In loving memory of dear Uncle from Lettie and children; In loving memory from Walt and Nell, Sis and Bob; In memory of Mr Wood from A Twelvetree, Higham Ferrers; In remembrance from Mr and Mrs J Turner; In loving memory of Mr Wood from Mr and Mrs Lines; In loving memory of Mr Wood from Chris and Hilda; With deepest sympathy from the neighbours, 114, 116, 120, 122, 139 and 143 Wellingborough-road; With deepest sympathy from Will and Jane Compton, Ada and Charlie; Jaques and Clark.

Messrs T Swindall and Sons carried out the funeral arrangements.