Edward James Gill (1866-1952)

Obituary
EDWARD JAMES GILL The death of Mr. E. J. Gill as briefly reported in a previous issue, removes a veteran of Dumaresque Island and one of the Lower Manning's oldest and best known residents. Had Mr. Gill lived another two months he would have reached the age of 86, for he was born in Cundletown on 25th April, 1866. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Gill, pioneers of Dumaresque Island, and except for a few years just after he was married, when he resided at Kolodong, he lived all his life on the Island. Suceeding his father on the Island farm property Mr. Gill followed farming pursuits, but mixed it with veterinary work, for he was a certificated veterinarian, and over many years in this connection visited all parts of the Manning and neighbouring districts Mr. Gill was an acknowledged judge of horses and raised and owned some very good animals of the light and heavy breeds. Pure bred pigs, too, claimed his fancy, and these, with his horses he exhibited on many occasions at Taree and Wingham shows. He was a keen supporter of agricultural associations and, in fact, was one of Taree's staunchest committee members up till a few years ago, when failing health and activity follow ing his breaking of a leg, brought about his retirement. In appreciation of his many years of valued help—and in this was a great deal of voluntary work in the early days of the present show ground—Mr. Gill was made a life member of the Society, a gesture which he highly regarded. A good neighbour and friend this gentleman had a helping hand to extend when ever needed and his many kindly acts in these directions will not readily be forgotten. Deceased left two daughters, Myra, well known locally as a nurse, and Muriel, (Mrs. Lewis) of Caringbah, young child following a as a young child following a burning accident and one daughter at infancy. On the death of her mother, eight years ago, Myra left her profession and undertook the management of the home and care of her father. One sister, Florence (Mrs. Walker), of Cremorne, and one brother David, of Kolodong, survive. Deceased sisters and brothers of the late Mr. Gill were: Margaret (Mrs. Cowan), Susie (Mrs. King), Esther (Mrs. Thos. Newton), Mary, Laura, Alice (Mrs. Carpenter) and Henry and Andrew.

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