Thomas Edgar Lewis 1a 2 3a 4a 5a 5b 6a

Birth Name Thomas Edgar Lewis
Nick Name Tom
Gender male
Age at Death unknown

Events

Event Date Place Description Sources
Birth between April 1881 and June 1881 Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales Vol 11a Page 418 1a 2 3a 4a
Census 1881 Turberville Arms, Penygraig, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales   1a
Census 1891 White Rock Hotel, Penygraig, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales   3a
Census 1901 22 Gilmour Street, Llwynypia, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales   4a
Occupation 1901   Colliery Engineer's Fitter - Above Ground 4a
Burial (Family) 7 August 1907 Trealaw Cemetery, Trealaw, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales Plot G604 - Margaret John née Lewis 7a 8a 5a 9a 10a 11a 12a
To Do

Family mourners yet to be identified:

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, M.E., Williamstown (nephew and niece)
Mrs. Owen, Narberth (niece)
Miss Catherine Harris, Aberdare (cousin)
Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Aberdare (nephew and niece)
Mr. David Davies, Aberdare (cousin)
Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare (cousin)
Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Treorchy (cousins)
Miss Lena Williams, Treorchy (niece)
Mrs. Davies, Crown Hotel, Pontypridd (cousin)
Mr. and Mrs. Gwatkin, Llwynypia (nephew and niece)
Mr. Dafydd Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncle)
Mr. Ashley, Treorchy (nephew)

Residence 7 August 1907 Tonypandy, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales   5a
Burial (Family) 12 November 1907 Trealaw Cemetery, Trealaw, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales Plot G604 - Dafydd John 7b 8a 5b 9a
To Do

Family mourners yet to be identified:
Mr. D. Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncle)
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Williamstown (cousins)
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Lewis, Tonypandy (cousins)

Possibly not family:
Mrs. Davies and family, Treforest
Mrs. Davies, Treorchy
Mrs. Williams and Miss Lena Williams
Mr. Sidney Williams, Treorchy
Mrs. Gwatinn, Pentre
Mrs. Evans, Kenfig Hill
Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare
Mr. and Mrs. D. Davies, Aberdare
Mrs. M. A. and Master Tom Davies, Aberdare

Residence 12 November 1907 Tonypandy, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales   5b
Burial (Family) 15 April 1924 Trealaw Cemetery, Trealaw, Ystradyfodwg, Glamorgan, Wales Plot Q676 - Tom John 7c 8b 6a 9b 13a
To Do

Mourners still to be identified:

Fred Lewis (Bridgend) (nephew)
Mr. David Davies, Llanweda (cousin)
Mrs. P. Davies, Abercynon (cousin)
Mr. Tom Ford (Aberaman) (cousin)

Death       14

Parents

Relation to main person Name Birth date Death date Relation within this family (if not by birth)
Father William Lewisabout 1850before 1901
Mother Margaret Daviesabout 1852
    Brother     Frederick Lewis between April 1875 and September 1875
         Thomas Edgar Lewis between April 1881 and June 1881

Families

Family of Thomas Edgar Lewis and ?

Married Wife ? ( * + ... )

Pedigree

  1. William Lewis
    1. Margaret Davies
      1. Frederick Lewis
      2. Thomas Edgar Lewis
        1. ?

Source References

  1. 1881 United Kingdom Census
  2. General Register Office: England & Wales Birth Index
  3. 1891 United Kingdom Census
  4. 1901 United Kingdom Census
  5. Rhondda Leader
      • Date: 10 August 1907
      • Page: Page 3
      • Citation:

        Death of Mrs. Tom John.

        Funeral Obsequies.

        Glowing Tributes.

        The news of the death of Mrs. Tom John, M.A., although not totally unexpected, was received with a painful shock when the sad news became known on Thursday evening last. The deceased lady had been ailing for many months, and despite the most skilful medical attention, the malignant nature of her terrible disease - internal cancer - was such as to preclude any hope of recovery. She bore her affliction with Christian fortitude, and even in the hour of bitterest agony not a murmur of complaint escaped her lips. Her "passing hence" has evoked the most widespread sympathy with those who are left behind, no fewer than 300 letters of condolence having been received during the week from public men all over the Kingdom.

        Mrs. Margaret John was in the 51st year of her age. The daughter of the late Mr. Fredk. Lewis, Penygraig, she was married to Mr. Tom John 33 years ago, and it can be truly said that never was a union which was more truly blessed. Of a singularly retiring disposition, her manifold virtues were manifested within the sacred circle of the hearth. Here she reigned supreme - a devoted wife and an exemplary mother. Her companionship was always sweet and pure, and who can measure the amount of encouraging support she lent the sorrow-stricken figure who followed her bier to her earthly home? As the Rev. T. G. Jenkyn, Salem, Llwynypia - the deceased's pastor for over a quarter of a century - fittingly remarked at the graveside, her whole life had been one of untiring support to her husband, and had it not been for the kindly encouragement she had given him in the stiffest hours of the fight, Mr. Tom John would not have soared so high in the public life of to-day.

        Neither did she forget her duties to her Maker. For 30 years at Salem, and for the past few years at Ebenezer, Tonypandy, she aided by kindly word and unostentatious deed the great cause of the Master. Like other noble women of Gwyllt Walia, her respect for ministers of the Gospel was unbounded, and many a wearied Gentile Apostle found a true solace and fresh inspiration in this gentle Lydia.

        A pathetic feature in connection with Mr. John's bereavement is the critical state of health of his only son - Dafydd - who for months past has been confined to his room with an affliction of the heart. His condition needs the most unremitting attention and nursing, and for this reason the service at the house on Wednesday was dispensed with. It is to be hoped that his health will soon improve, and that he will once more resume the career upon which he has lately embarked.

        The funeral obsequies took place on Wednesday last at Llethrddu Cemetery, Trealaw, the Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy (her pastor), officiated, assisted by the Revs. T. G. Jenkyn, Llwynypia; T. Williams, Clydach Vale; and W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy. The attendance was very large and representative, the teaching profession being very strongly represented. The coffin bore the simple inscription:-

        Margaret John,
        Died August 1st, 1907,
        Age 51 Years.

        En route to the cemetery, the choir of Ebenezer, Tonypandy, under the leadership of Mr. W. T. David, rendered very feelingly several well-Known Welsh hymns, most of which were amongst the favourite literature of the deceased.

        The ceremony at the graveside was brief but impressive. Touching tributes to the deceased's worth were paid by the Revs. T. U. Jenkyn and E. Richards. The former, speaking with a 25 years' acquaintanceship of Mrs. John, remarked that during that period all knew the history of Mr. Tom John, but very few were those who could speak with any degree of intimacy of the Christian character of the deceased. Although of a quiet, unassuming disposition, the support and encouragement which he (Mr. Jenkyn) had received at her hands on more than one occasion had been very helpful to him, as a minister of the Gospel and ministers of Christ needed such encouragement at times. She was a woman whose one great word was "Thorough." Her faith was thorough, firm as the rock, and sublime as the noonday sun. As a wife and mother she performed her duties with the same thoroughness of manner, and with the cause of the Master it was her one great watchword. They in Salem knew the true worth of the deceased lady. She subscribed generously, believing that the cause was really the cause of God. Her worth as wife and mother no one knew better than the bereaved husband and children, and had it not been for her support and inspiration Mr. Tom John would not have soared so high in public life.

        The Rev. Evan Richards, Tonypandy, speaking under great emotion, also delivered himself in sentiments. The occasion, he said, was one of great sorrow, and their hearts went out in sympathy towards Mr. John and the sorrowing children and relatives gathered around. Mr. John was a national character, and in his affliction the heart of a nation had been touched. It was difficult to think of him under a cloud. He was always in the sunshine - he loved the sunshine - but to-day they saw him under the cloud of adversity. But across that dark bank the prismatic colours of the rainbow of the Greater Life had been painted by God's own fingers, conveying the comforting promise of a Peace and Calm beyond the Storm.

        The Rev. W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy, read a portion of the Scriptures, and after a touching supplication by the Rev. Thomas Williams, Clydach Vale, all was over.

        Among the mourners were:- Mr. Tom John (husband); Miss Maggie John (daughter); Miss Diana Lewis (sister); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Penygraig (nephew and niece); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, M.E., Williamstown (nephew and niece); Mr. and Mrs. Tom Edgar Lewis, Tonypandy (nephew and niece); Mrs. Owen, Narberth (niece); Miss Catherine Harris, Aberdare (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Davies, Aberdare (nephew and niece); Mr. David Davies, Aberdare (cousin): Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir (brother- and sister-in-law); Miss John, Cymmer (sister-in-law) Mr. John Preece, Porth (brother-in-law) Mr. Evan Lewis, Swansea, (uncle); Mr. David Evans, Llandilo (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Treorchy (cousins); Miss Lena Williams, Treorchy (niece); Mr. and Mrs. Scott, Pentre (cousins); Mrs. Davies, Crown Hotel, Pontypridd (cousin); Mr. and Mrs. Gwatkin, Llwynypia (nephew and niece); Mr. Dafydd Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncle); Mr. Ashley, Treorchy (nephew). Mr. Dafydd John (son) was too indisposed to leave the house, and his sister Madeline remained at home in attendance upon him.

        Among those present at the funeral we noticed the Revs. Wm. Williams (O.M.), Tonypandy; J. Walters (C.), Clydach Vale; J. Hope Evans (C.), Mardy; T. T. Jones (B.), Blaenclydach; W. S. Jones (B.), Llwynypia; T. Morris (C.), Clydach Vale; E. Dunmore Edwards, M.A. (prin- citial, Collegiate School, Pontypridd); J. Morgan (C.M.), Llwynypia; J. Nicholas (B.), Tonypandy; County Councillor Tom Jones, Treorchy; Mr. J. D. Williams, J.P., D.C. Mr. David Williams, D.C., Tonypandy; Mr. W. T. Jones, D.C., Treorchy Mr. W. P. Nicholas, solicitor, Trealaw; Dr. Idris Morgan, Llwynypia; Mr. W. D. Jones ("Rhondda Leader"); Mr. D. R. Jones, Tonypandy; Alderman Richard Lewis, Tonypandy; Mr. John Gilmour, Glamorgan Collieries; Mr. D. Jones, assistant overseer; Mr. D. Evans (Eos Dar); Mr. D. Evans (conductor, Tonypandy Harmonic Society); Mr. D. Lloyd, I.S.M., Tonypandy; Mr. Rees Davies, M.E., Aberdare; Mr. W. J. Evans, Aberdare; Mr. W. C. Prichard, Glamorgan Collieries; Major R. C. Dyke, Pentre; Mr. W. D. Morgan, architect, Pentre; Mr. Pennant, Pontycymmer; Mr. Geo. Evans, Tonypandy; Mr. Morris Morris, builder, Ferndale; Mr. W. T. David, Tonypandy; Mr. Tom Evans, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. Dan Evans, M.E., Llwynypia.

        The teaching profession was represented by the following:- Messrs. Rhys Nicholas, N.U.T., Cwmavon Evan Davies, N.U.T.; E. Samuel, M.A., Porth; H. Howells, Treorchv: Dr. R. D. Chalke, Porth; Isaac Owen James Nicholas, Aberavon; J. W. Jones, Tonypandy; - Lewis, Hen-goed; T. Arthur, Tonypandy; Dan Jones, Cymmer; and Miss Williams, L.L.A., Cardiff.

        Letters of Condolence.

        Over 300 letters of condolence were received. The Lord Bishop of St. David's wrote:-

        "Dear Mr. John, - I saw with great regret an account of your great sorrow, and venture to write to express my most sincere sympathy with you in your great bereavement. I have the warmest esteem for you as an example of a sterling patriot, and I am sure you will have the widespread sympathy of all who value disinterested and indefatigable services. May I add that I value personally very much your personal kindness in the interview we had together on public affairs. I am very sorry to hear of your son's illness, and earnestly hope he will very soon be restored to health.

        "Yn y dyfroedd dyfnion yr ydych ynddynt, nid oes genyf ond credu a gweddio y bydd i'r Meistr tyner yr ydych yn Ei wasanaethu eich diddanu a'ch nerthu yn ol Ei addewid. - Yr eiddoch yn gynes,

        [In the deep waters you are in, I only have to believe and pray that the tender Master you serve will entertain you and rescue you in His promise. - The eagerly warm,]

        "J. T. DAVIDS."

        Mr. A. R. Pickles, president of the N.U.T., wrote:- "It is with sincere sorrow we hear of your irreparable loss. The release from the pain and suffering to enter into that higher life, where sadness and sorrow and pain are not met, leaves you full of heaviness and sorrow. So, my dear Tom John, we take your hand in very sincere sympathy. Pray that you may be given strength to bear that through the darkness you may be able to look up and onward to her who so long has cheered your way, and that you may be able to say to yourself that she is ever in spirit by your side. So may the long days and weary nights pass in faithful waiting and in abiding hope."

        Prof. Anwyl, M.A., Aberystwyth:- "I have been deeply touched by the fortitude and tranquility with which you have trodden the path of public and private duty, while your spirit devotedly bore its load of constant care. It is my earnest hope, dear friend, that you will derive in the present trial some other spring of consolation."

        Mr. Alfred T. Davies, Welsh secretary to the Board of Education:- "Words are but little purpose at a time like this, but when the heart is sad it is some consolation to learn that others have had you in their thoughts, and that they trust that you may be supported and comforted in the hour of your trial."

        Mr. Allen Oroft, past ex-president of the N.U.T.:- "I am conscious of the futility of mere words in this sad moment, and can only hope that time the great healer will ultimately do something, if but a little, to assuage the poignancy of your grief."

        Mr. Ernest Gray, M.A., Executive, N. U. T.:- "In days of domestic affliction, nothing but the strongest sense of duty would have kept you so long and so loyally devoted to public work. It is a sacrifice which I appreciate and admire."

        Among others received were those written by the following:- The Rev. T. Theophilus, Tredegar; Mr. W. W. Hood, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. T. W. David, Pendoylan, Cowbridge; Mr. A. Blenkinsop, F..LS. (Executive); Alderman Richard Lewis, Tonypandy; Alderman T. J. Hughes, Bridgend; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P., Russell Square, London; Miss Hannah Williams, L.L.A., Cardiff; Mr. and Mrs. T. P. Jenkins, J.P., Tonypandy; Mr. T. Jones, H.M.I.S., Abergavenny; Mr. Harry Evans, F.R.C.O., Liverpool; Mr. Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; Mr and Mrs. Charles Morgan, B.A., Cardiff; Committee of the Aberporth Chair Eistedd- fod; County Councillor James Evans, Cambrian House, Clydach Vale; Mr. John Kees, H.M.I.S., Swansea; Mr. J. James, M.A., B.Sc., Ph.D., Chief Education Official, Glamorgan County Council; Mr. Augustus Lewis, Inspector of Factories; Mr. George Sharpies, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. F. W. Pepperell, Cardiff Teachers' Associa- tion; Dr. W. Morris, F.R.G.S., Treorchy; Mr. J. Davies, hon. secretary Rhondda and Pontypridd Teachers' Association; Mid-Rhondda Male Voice Choir Rev. and Mrs. J. Grawys Jones, Aberdare; Mr. and Mrs. T. W. Berry, Director of Education, Rhondda; Mr. Geo. A. Hamilton, treasurer N.U.T.; Mr. Geo. Baddeley, execu- tive N.U.T. Mr. Thomas Griffiths (on behalf of Salem Congregational Choir); Mr. T. J. Williams, N.U.T., Bangor; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, M.A. (Oxon.), B.A. (Lond.), president N.U.T.; Mr. T. G. Jones, Deputy Clerk Rhondda Urban Dis- trict Council; Mr. Phillip Thomas, Gnoll Street Schools, Neath (N.U. B. and 0. for Wales); Mr. Evan Davies, executive N.U.T., Wales; Salem Congregational Church, Llwynypia; Mr. W. A. Nicholls, vice-president N.U.T.; Tonypandy Har- monic Society; Sir Isambard and Lady Owen: Mabon; Mr. D. Davies, M.P., Llandinam; Mr. J. R. JoneSj Williams- town; Mr. T. G. Price, Merthyr; Mr. Dan Jenkins, Llangrwys, Llanwrda; Mrs. Salter Lloyd, Aberdare; Miss A. Griffiths, Bodringallt Schools; Mr. R. W. Jones, Pengam; Mr. W. H. Jeffreys, Russell Square, London; Mr. Alf. Evans, Llwynypia; Dr. Jenkins, Medical Officer of Health, Pentre; Councillor R. S. Griffiths, Clydach Vale; Mr. Dd. Bowen, Abercarn.

        The funeral arrangements were admirably carried out by Messrs. J. Griffiths and Sons, undertakers, Tonypandy.

      • Date: 16 November 1907
      • Page: Supplement - Page 1
      • Citation:

        Death of Mr. Dafydd John.

        Promising Career Cut Short

        Representative Funeral.

        After a painful illness extending over seven months, Dafydd, the only son of Mr. Tom John, M.A., Llwynypia, passed away on Friday midnight. Always of a very delicate constitution, the condition of his heart had always given great concern to his parents and sisters. On two occasions he undertook a prolonged voyage in the Mediterranean Sea, and returned much benefited thereby. Of late, however, dropsy and other complications set in, and although his condition had been pronounced by the doctors as practically hopeless, he, nevertheless, kept up a stout heart and a cheerful disposition. In moments of ease, he would converse freely with his father about various matters, and although confined to his bed, he took a wonderful amount of interest in what was passing in the world outside.

        Dafydd was educated at the Llwynypia School, and at the County School, Porth, where he was held in great esteem by the scholars and teachers. Two years ago, on returning from his last trip, he joined the staff of the "Rhondda Leader" as a junior reporter. Like every true Pressman, he was very attached to his paper, and was always proud to assist, however so little, in its fortunes. Like Mr. Micawber, he had "great expectations," and many times he remarked that he would be a great journalist, "not a mere reporter."

        "Alas, the schemes of mice and men often go agley."

        About a twelvemonth ago, he underwent an operation for a cleft palate, and although the operation was entirely successful, the effect was not all that could be desired.

        He was a well-read youth, and his conversation was always sparkling and entertaining, and marked with bright flashes of quiet humour. In politics - he was a keen politician at an early age - he was a staunch Liberal, and a true son of his respected father. He was an ardent Non-conformist, and a keen Disestablisher - indeed, he would paint the evils of a State-aided religion with no light hand. He was also a great friend of the teaching profession, as was only to be expected, and almost his last appearance in public was at the last conference of the N.U.T., when Mr. and Mrs. John were presented with an address at Oxford. His mother, who was then lying seriously ill at home, failed to attend the proceedings, and the duties of responding on her behalf fell to Dafydd, which he did with the instinct of a born orator. At the end of April he was confined to the house, and with but rare intervals the hand of sickness was heavy upon him until his release came on Friday midnight, and he passed to the Unknown at the early age of 20 years.

        The funeral on Tuesday was a very large and representative one, the teaching profession, in particular, being strongly represented. The coffin, which was of polished oak, bore the simple inscription

        Dafydd John,
        Died November 9th, 1907.
        Age 20 Years.

        At the graveside a short service was held, when touching tributes to the character of deceased were paid by the Rev. E. Richards, Tonypandy; Rev. T. G. Jenkyn, Salem, Llwynypia; and Rev. Grawys Jones, Aberdare. The singing en route and at the graveside was conducted by Mr. W. T. David, Tonypandy.

        The mourners included Mr. Tom John, M.A. (father); Misses Maggie and Matilda John (sisters); Miss Mary John (aunt); Mr and Mrs. J. W. John, Ynyshir (uncle and aunt); Mr. J. Preece, Porth, and Mr. D. Morgan, Blaenrhondda (uncles); Mr. and Mrs. Scott, Pentre (uncle and aunt); Miss Diana Lewis (aunt); Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Williamstown; Mr. and Mrs. Tom Lewis, Tonypandy, and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lewis, Penygraig (cousins); Mrs. Davies and family, Treforest; Mrs. Davies, Treorchy; Mrs. Williams and Miss Lena Williams; Mr. Sidney Williams, Treorchy; Mrs. Gwatinn, Pentre; Mrs. Evans, Kenfig Hill; Mr. Jeffreys, Treherbert; Mr. Isaac Harris, Aberdare; Mr. and Mrs. D. Davies, Aberdare; Mrs. M. A. and Master Tom Davies, Aberdare.

        Among those present we noticed the Revs. W. Charles, M.A., Treorchy; M. H. Ellis (C.M.), Trealaw; J. Morgan (O.M.), Llwynypia; J. Nicholas (B.); J. L. Roderick, B.A. (B.); W. Williams (C.M.), Tonypandy: S. G. Jones (C.), Trealaw; Alderman Rd. Lewis, J.P. Mr. D. W. Davies, C.C., Tonypandy; Mr. David Smith, J.P chairman of the Rhondda Urban District Council); Mr. R. S. Griffiths, D.C. Mr. D. C. Evans, D.C. Mr. D. Williams. D.C. Mr. James Evans, C.C., Oydach Yale; Dr. Idris Morgan; Dr. Llewellyn, Penygraig; Mr. T. Millward, solicitor, Pentre; Mr. D. Jones, overseer; Mr. W. D. Jones ("Leader") Mr. D. M. Williams, accountant; Mr. Dan Evans, M.E., Llwynypia; Mr. D. Thomas, Trealaw; Mr. Ben Davies, miners' agent, Pentre; Mr. N. Meredith, Llwynypia; Mr. Jacob Rees, Pentre; Mr. J. Kemp, Ynyshir; Mr. T. W. Berry, Director of Education; Mr. T. G. Jones, deputy-clerk, Rhondda Urban District Council. The teaching profession were represented by Mr. E. Samuel, M.A., Porth; Dr. R. D. Chalke, M.A., Porth; Messrs. Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; T. T. Jenkins, Pentrebach, Merthyr; R. J. Price, Merthyr; EI. C. Willmott, Cardiff; James Williams, Swansea; James Nicholas. Aberavon; Isaac Davies, Blaengwynfi; Edmund Davies, Cymmer; J. Ambrose, Penrhiwceiber; G. Lewis, Mardy; J. Evans, Ton; D. Phil- lips, Wattstown; LI. Jones, Pentre; S. Davies, Pontrhondda; David Davies, Pontygwaith; T. P. John, Trealaw; W. H. Owen, Treherbert; H. Harris, Tylorstown; J. W. Jones, Tonypandy: H. Howells, Treorchy; B. Gabe, Penyrenglyn; T. Morgan, Cwmparc Ll. Davies, Pentre. Clydach Vale School: Messrs. R. R. Williams, D. E. Griffiths, D. R. Rees, R. J. Whittington, Mrs. Price, Miss G. Lewis, Miss Jones and Miss Colville. Llwynypia School: Mr. and Mrs. Alf. Evans, Mr. J. Griffiths, Mr. R. Bowen, and Mr. J. D. Lewis.

        Scores of letters expressing sympathy with the family in their second bereavement - it being only three months since Mrs. John was laid to rest - were received, among the number being those from the Right Hon. D. Lloyd George, M.P., Dr. T. J. Macnamara, M.P., Sir Isambard Owen, and Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P. The funeral arrangements were conducted by Messrs. J. Griffiths and Sons, undertakers, Tonypandy.

  6. Glamorgan Free Press and Rhondda Leader
      • Date: 18 April 1924
      • Page: Page 9
      • Citation:

        A LOSS TO THE RHONDDA.

        Funeral of Mr. Tom John, M.A., J.P., Penygraig

        The death of Mr. Tom John, M.A., J.P., educationist, philosopher, litterateur, musician, and Eisteddfodwr, to mention a few of this versatile man's qualifications, on Thursday evening last removes one of the "grand old men," not only of the Rhondda but of Wales.

        The death of Mr. John, who was in his seventy-fifth year, followed a heart attack, and came as a shock to his many friends, for he had appeared to be in his normal health on Wednesday evening. He was one of the best known and most highly respected figures in the public life of the Rhondda, and was an educationist of national fame. During a long lifetime devoted to public service, he became widely known not only for his sterling work for democratic education, but as a talented musician and a staunch and loyal worker in the cause of Liberalism.

        A native of Aberdare, Mr. John received his early education at the old "Ysgol y Comin," and was trained for the scholastic profession at the Borough-road Training College, London. After a short stay in North Wales, he came to the Rhondda. For a time he was a teacher at Penygraig, and later took charge of the colliery school establishd by the Glamorgan Coal Company, which subsequently was taken over by the local authority. He retired from this post several years ago, after forty years' service as head master.

        In 1884 he was elected a member of the executive committee of the National Union of Teachers, and he remained a member of that body until he retired in 1904. His fellow members of the scholastic profession conferred on him the highest honour in their gift by electing him president of the N.U.T. He occupied the chair at the annual conference at Llandudno in 1905, and was one of the delegates appointed by the N.U.T. to present the Union's address to his Majesty King George V at the Court at St. James' Palace in July, 1910. He was a member of the Court of the University of Wales, a governor of the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire, and a member of the National Council of the General Welsh Board. He also served intermediate education in his own district, and was a governor of the Porth County School. These services were recognized by the University of Wales in the conferment upon him of the hon. degree of M.A. of the University.

        Few men, if any, did more to create a love of music in the minds of the Rhondda people. He was one of the few remaining survivors of Caradog's famous Côr Mawr. His brother, the late J.W. John, head master of the Ynyshir Schools, was also one of Caradog's famous band of singers. Mr. Tom John was for many years precentor of Salem Congregational Church, Llwynypia, and was conductor of the Salem Choral Society. In his youthful days he and the late Mr. J. W. Jones, Tonypandy, carried a harmonium from Aberdare to Ferndale to assist in the formation of a choral society in the latter district. His last appearance as a musical conductor was at the Westminster Hall, London, in January, 1922, on the occasion of a Coalition meeting at which Mr. Lloyd George was present.

        During his long residence in the Rhondda he was the means of raising thousands of pounds for charity by organizing various musical events. In his youth he was well known locally as a cricketer, and was up to the time of his death a keen golfer. In politics he was a staunch life-long Liberal and was an ex-president of the old Rhonnda Labour-Liberal Association, which was disbanded a year or two ago. He was very diligent in the discharge of his duties on the magisterial bench, and was a well known figure at the Rhondda courts, where his rich sense of humour earned for him the title of "The Rhondda Plowden". If always prepared with a jest in season, he served the public faithfully in this as in every other capacity, and took particular interest in the reformation of youthful offenders.

        THE FUNERAL.

        The funeral took place on Tuesday at Trealaw Cemetery. The services at the house were conducted by the Rev. George Evans, B.A., B.D., and the Rev. Dyfan Thomas (Soar, Penygraig), while at the graveside the Rev. G. Evans and the Rev. D. G. Evans, Rhydyfelin (past pastor of Tabor Church) officiated. Deacons of Tabor Church and sergeants of the Glamorgan Constabulary, under Police sergeant I. J. Beirne, acted as bearers.

        A brief address was delivered at the graveside by Mr. Enoch Davies, J.P., one of the deceased's colleagues on the magisterial bench. He said that Mr. John's sayings and happy expressions would live long in the memory of those who were privileged to have known him. He was a versatile, able, and most kind-hearted man, and his colleagues on the bench would miss him greatly.

        The principal mourners were Mrs. D. John (widow), Mrs. T. Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer (sister), the Misses John (daughters), Mrs J. W. John, Porth (sister-in-law), Messrs. Moy John, Fred Lewis (Penygraig), Fred Lewis (Bridgend) and Tom Lewis (nephews); Mr. John Preece (brother-in-law), Messrs. Arthur and David Preece (nephews), Mr. David Davies, Llanweda (cousin), Mrs. P. Davies, Abercynon (cousin), and Messrs. Tom Ford (Aberaman), Evan Lewis (Swansea) and D. Evans, Llandilo (cousins).

        The cortege was preceded by about 100 members of the Glamorgan Constabulary, under Superintendents James Davies and J. L. Rees and Inspectors E. Jones (Ton Pentre), John Davies (Tonypandy), James Griffiths (Porth) and W. E. Rees (Ferndale).

        The ministers of religion present included the Revs. Principal Thomas Rees, M.A., Ph.D., Bangor College; Geo. Evans, B.A., B.D, Tabor, Penygraig (of which the late Mr. John was a deacon); Joseph Walters, Blaenclydach; E. C. Davies, Ynyshir; J. Williams, Hafod; Fred Jones, B.A., B.D., Treorchy; R. E. Peregrine, Williamstown; D. T. Jones, Noddfa, Blaenclydach; D. Overton, Ynyshir; D. Jeremy Jones, M.A., Tonypandy; D. Mark, vicar of Cymmer, Porth; D. G. Evans, Rhydyfelin (past pastor of Tabor, Penygraig), and R. Williams, Trinity, Tonypandy.

        The Bench was strongly represented, and amongst magistrates and members of the Rhondda Council present were Mr. D. Lleufer Thomas, M.A., stipendiary magistrate for the Rhondda and Pontypridd; Messrs. John Hughes, J.P., David Lewis, J.P., Stephen Evans, J.P., Alderman James Evans, J.P., Messrs. Enoch Davies, J.P., Tom Taylow, J.P. (chairman of the Pontypridd Ubran District Council), Tom Morgan, J.P., David Lewis, J.P., Tudor Jenkins (representing Mr. T. Pascoe Jenkins, J.P.), J. W. John, J.P., J.W. Richards J.P., William Jones, J.P., H. H. Evans, M.E., J.P. (general manager of the Cambrian Combine Company), and Walter Williams, J.P., together with Councillors James James, J.P., Dan Davies, J.P., Dr. W. E. Thomas, J.P., Edgar Morgan, J. T. Jones, Abel Jacob, and Gwilym Rowlands, and Mr. T. W. Berry (director of education).

        The scholastic profession and the National Union of Teachers, of which the late Mr. John was a past president, were very strongly represented, among those present being Messrs. Dan Edwards, Port Talblot (representing the N.U.T. Executive); Rhys Nicholas, Cwmavon; Philip Thomas, Neath; T. Morgan, Cwm pare; Urien Edwards, Bodringallt; Ben Nicholas (members of the central countil of the N.U.T. benvolent and orphan fund); T. Goodwin (president of the Rhondda Association of the N.U.T.); Gomer Evans (past president of the Rhondda Association); Dan Phillips (a former president of the Rhondda Association); J. T. Lewis (vice-president of the Welsh Head Master's Association); Morgan Rees, Harry Harries, Griffith Davies, J. W. Thomas, Edward Hugh, M.A., R. O. Davies, B.Sc., G. Davies, B.Sc., R. Bowen, A. Evans, J. D. Lewis, T. D. John, J. R. Jones, Jack Griffiths, Gwilym Lewis, R. J. Oriel, W. Jones, M.A., W. Chubb, Llandwit Fardre; Rhys Morgan, M.A., Pontypridd; and E. Samuel, M.A., Porth.

        Amongst the general public present were Messrs. Willie Griffiths and W. Thomas, Cardiff; J. Victor Evans, M.A., London; T. W. Williams (representing the Church of Salem, Llwynypia, of which Mr. John was for many years precentor); Charles Woosnam, Porth; T. P. Davies and John Hughes (representing West Rhondda Liberal Association); Gomer Jones, Tonypandy; U. R. Edwards, Ystrad Rhondda, E. Edwards (representing the Rhondda district of the Typographical Association); L. E. Morgan, Barclays Bank, Tonypandy; Albert Thomas, Blaenllechau; Llewellyn Evans, Tonypandy; J. H. Llewellyn and George Llewellyn, Griffith Davies, David Rees (coroner for East Glamorgan); Thomas Morris, Trealaw; D. G. Hughes, Clydach Vale; T. Osborne, Porth; M. E. Williams, Llanharry; and Thomas Rees, Penygraig.

        Beautiful floral tributes were received from Mrs. John (widow); Maggie and Madeline (daughters); Mr. and Mrs. T. Griffiths, J.P., Cymmer (sister and brother-in-law); Mrs J.W. John and Mr. Moy John; Mr. J. Preece and family; Head master and staff, Porth County School; Miss E. M. Harries, Girls' County School; Rhondda Head Teacher's Association; Dr. J. D. Jenkins (medical officer of health), Pentre; Rhondda branch of the National Union of Teachers; National Union of Teachers; Misses Gwladys and Violet Watkins; Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, Craig-y-nos, Llandrindod Wells; girls of Porth Intermediate School; Mrs. Harries and family, Prewylfa, Dinas; National Council of Music, University of Wales; Mr. and Mrs. Dean Davies, Clydach Vale; Council of U.C.S.W.; Mr. R. Love; staff, Tonypandy Secondary School, Rhondda Gold Club; Mr. Alf and Miss Annie Evans, Penrhyns; and Rhondda Liberal Association.

  7. Notice of Interment - Trealaw Cemetery
      • Date: 2 August 1907
      • Page: Margaret John
      • Date: 9 November 1907
      • Page: Dafydd John
      • Date: 11 April 1924
      • Page: Tom John
  8. Thomas Preece: Gravestone photographs
      • Date: 22 June 2018
      • Page: Mary Adelina John et al, Trealaw Cemetery
      • Grave - Mary Adelina John - view
      • Grave - Mary Adelina John - inscription
      • Date: 22 June 2018
      • Page: Tom & Diana John, Trealaw Cemetery
      • Grave - Tom John - view
      • Grave - Tom John - inscription
  9. Burial Register - Trealaw Cemetery
      • Page: Plot G604
      • Page: Plot Q676
  10. Evening Express
      • Date: 8 August 1907
      • Page: Third Edition, Page 2
      • Citation:

        LATE MRS. TOM JOHN

        The remains of Mrs. Tom John, Tonypandy, were laid to rest at Llethrddu Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was attended by a large number of the general public, and by many well-known figures in the scholastic world, in which Mr. John, as ex-president of the National Union of Teachers, is so well respected. Owing to the illness of Mr. John's son, Dafydd, the service at the house was dispensed with. Officiating at the graveside were the Rev. T. Richards (Tonypandy), the Rev. T. G. Jenkin (Llwynypia), the Rev. T. Williams (Clydach Vale), and the Rev. W. Charles, M.A. (Treorky). Letters of condolence were received from the Bishop of St. David's; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, president N.U.T.; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P., secretary N.U.T.; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Professor Anwyl, Aberystwyth; Mr. A. T. Davies, Welsh Educatioc Department; Mr. Harry Coward, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. G. Sharples, ex-president N.U.T.; committee of the Aberporth Chair Eisteddfod, and many others.

  11. Tarian Y Gweithiwr
      • Date: 15 August 1907
      • Page: Page 6
      • Citation:

        Claddedigaeth Mrs. Tom John.

        Daearwyd yr hyn oedd farwol o Mrs Margaret John, Ceinfan, Tonypandy, anwyl briod Mr Tom John, M.A, yn mynwent Llethrddu prydnawn dydd Mercher diweddaf. Yr oedd tyrfa fawr yn y gynhebrwng, yn cynwys cynrychiolaeth gref o Undeb Cenedlaethoi Cyfranwyr Addysg. Derbyniodd Mr John dros 300 o lythyrau yn datgan cydymdeimlad ag ef, a hyny oddiwrth ddynion yn cynrychioli pob gwedd a sefyllfa ar gymdeithas. Gwasanaethwyd ar yr achlysur gan y Parchn E Richards, Tonypandy; T Williams, Clydach Vale; W Charles, M A, Treorci; a T G Jenkyns. Salem, Llwynypia. Ar y ffordd i'r gladdfa canodd Cor Ebenezer amryw o donau cynulleidfaol adnabyddus.

         

         

         

        Burial of Mrs. Tom John.

        The mortal remains of Mrs Margaret John, Ceinfan, Tonypandy, the beloved husband of Mr Tom John, M.A, were buried at Llethrddu Cemetery last Wednesday afternoon. A large crowd attended the ceremony, including strong representation from the National Union of Teachers. Mr John received over 300 letters expressing condolences, from men representing every facet of society. The service was conducted by the Revs. E Richards, Tonypandy; T Williams, Clydach Vale; W Charles, M A, Treorchy; and T G Jenkyns. Salem, Llwynypia. On the way to the burial ground the Ebenezer choir sang several well-known congregational tunes.

  12. Weekly Mail
      • Date: 10 August 1907
      • Page: Page 12
      • Citation:

        LOCAL OBITUARY NOTICES.

        MRS. TOM JOHN, LLWYNYPIA.

        Widespread sympathy is expressed with Mr. Tom John, M.A., Llwynypia (ex-president of the National Union of Teachers), at the death of his wife, Mrs. Margaret John, which took place at Ceinfan, Tonypandy, on Thursday night.

        Mrs. John had had a long and painful illness, and was in consequence unable to attend the recent National Union of Teachers' conference, at which she and Mr. John were to have been the recipients of a. presentation. Deceased was attended to by Dr. Edwin Morgan, who was in constant consultation with Dr. Maclean, of Cardiff, but, despite the best medical aid, she succumbed to an attack of internal cancer.

        By the death of Mrs. John a gap will be left in the social life of the district. The deceased lady was a prominent figure in all philanthropic work in the district in which she had lived, and worked assiduously for its social development. The daughter of the late Mr. Frederick Lewis, of Penygraig, she was married to Mr. Tom John 33 years ago. Throughout her life she has rendered her husband sympathy and encouragement in his public career and acted as a help-meet. Unassuming in her manner, the soul of integrity, and with a wonderful charm of womanly sympathy, she passed a useful life, assisting any cause of deserving charity, at the same time devoting herself to the best interests of her family.

        For the past two months Mr. John's son has also been laid up with a serious illness, and is now confined to his bed.

        The remains of Mrs. Tom John, Tonypandy, were laid to rest at Llethrddu Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon. The funeral was attended by a large number of the general public, and by many well-known figures in the scholastic world, in which Mr. John, as ex-president of the National Union of Teachers, is so well respected. Owing to the illness of Mr. John's son, Dafydd, the service at the house was dispensed with. Officiating at the graveside were the Rev. T. Richards (Tonypandy), the Rev. T. G. Jenkin (Llwynypia), the Rev. T. Williams (Clydach Vale), and the Rev. W. Charles, M.A. (Treorky).

        Letters of condolence were received from the Bishop of St. David's; Mr. Arthur R. Pickles, president N.U.T.; Mr. J. H. Yoxall, M.P.. secretary N.U.T.; Mr. T. P. Sykes, ex-president N.U.T.; Professor Anwyl, Aberystwyth; Mr. A. T. Davies, Welsh Education Department; Mr. Harry Coward, ex-president N.U.T.; Mr. G. Sharples, ex-president N.U.T.; committee of the Aberporth Chair Eisteddfod, and many others.

  13. Western Mail
      • Date: 12 April 1924
      • Page: Page 8
      • Citation:

        DEATHS.
        JOHN. - On April 10th, at Cae Gwyn, Penygraig, Tom John, M.E., J.P., beloved husband of Mrs. Diana John, in his 75th year. Funeral Tuesday, 2.30, for Trealaw Cemetery; Gentlemen only.

  14. (Death unknown but obviously not living)