Welland History .ca

The TALES you probably never heard about

WILLIAM DANIEL JEFFREY

Late Ex-Mayor Jeffrey

[Welland Tribune, 2 August 1889]

On Sunday afternoon last, William D. Jeffrey, for many years a prominent resident of the town of Welland, passed peacefully to the Great Unknown. Although critically ill for many months, Mr. Jeffrey appeared no worse than usual on the morning of the day of his death, chatting with friends, and with no indication that the end was so near. Shortly after one o’clock collapse occurred, and unconsciousness ensued. Prompt medical measures were taken, but deceased never rallied, and at a quarter past four life ceased to exist.

Mr. Jeffrey was born in Nova Scotia in 1831, but was reared, educated and learned his trade (carriage making) in Pelham; afterward he lived at St. Catharines and Wellandport. In the former town he married his first wife (Miss Woolnough) who died in 1871, and married Mrs. Barr, who survives him, in 1873. By his first wife Mr. Jeffrey had three sons- Jerome, Charles and George. Mr. Jerome Jeffrey is partner in the firm of Messrs. Lyman & Jeffrey, druggists, Buffalo, also of the firm of Taylor & Jeffrey; oil producers-Bradford, Pa. Charles is engaged with the Buffalo firm and George is with the Bradford house-all live pushing business men. By his second wife, two daughters survive-who live at home. The two sisters of deceased are Mrs. Henry Heaslip of Walpole and Mrs. E. Crocker of Iowa.

Mr. Jeffrey became a resident of Welland twenty-one years ago, and has since taken a leading part in our town’s history. During most of this time he has carried on the business of carriage making on an extensive scale. He was a member of the first council board when Welland took upon herself the cares of a town, and in 1885 served faithfully and honorably as mayor.

After a score of years in business harness Mr. Jeffrey retired from trade about 18 months ago, the more fully to enjoy the beautiful home recently erected for him on Merritt street. For more than a year he has been failing in health and for the past few months it was apparent that he could not long withstand the advance of disease, but his death fell upon his family with sad suddenness at last. All his family were present at his death bed except George, who did not reach home until afterward. The funeral on Tuesday was one of the largest our town has ever known. Rev. Mr. McCuaig of the Presbyterian church conducted the religious services, after which the impressive rites of the Masonic fraternity were performed by W. Bros. Brasford and Willson, assisted by members of the craft. Deceased was an honorary member of old Welland lodge, No. 36, Fonthill, and treasurer of Willson chapter of this town. The attendance of Masons was large and representative. The Mayor and council attended in a body. The floral offerings were extremely beautiful, and especially appropriate was an elegant floral pillow from the children of the deceased with word “Father” inset. Interment took place at Fonthill cemetery. And thus passed away another of Welland’s honored pioneers, a just and upright man, a good citizen and a true friend.

  1. On 2 January 2018, Katherine Smith Said,

    This is my great great grandfather, I am descended from his son Charles. I am wondering if any of the readers are also working on the genealogy.

  2. On 6 January 2018, B Said,

    Morning Katherine

    I do hope that you will connect with someone who is reading our site. I have the death notice of Euphemia Jeffrey which I will share with you:
    JEFFREY- In Welland, on Friday, 9th, Euphemia, daughter of Mr. W.D. Jeffrey, aged 11 months.
    Welland Tribune
    14 May 1874
    Died: 9 May 1874
    Buried in the Fonthill Cemetery.
    B

  3. On 6 January 2018, B Said,

    Another tidbit Katherine

    Wednesday evening, Aug. 27th., at the home of Mr. and Mrs. H. Hurleston, Elizabeth St., a nice surprise was arranged for Mr. and Mrs. William Jeffreys, who left Welland, Aug. 28th for their former home in England. The party was given by their friends and fellow workers of the Union Carbide Co. A bunch of about twenty gathered to see Mrs. Tom Proctor present Mrs. Jeffreys with a lovely dressing case, and Mr. Jeffreys with a beautiful black club bag. After the presentation, refreshments were served and the evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

    Welland Tribune
    11 September 1919

  4. On 5 August 2018, Katherine Smith Said,

    Thank you so much for this information. I was sure the family was buried in Fonthill Cemetery however, did not find anything on Find A Grave. I will go visit the Cemetery and start looking at headstones.

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