Widespread sympathy this week has been extended to Mrs Knighton of Sheepbridge House and her family in the loss she has sustained in the death of her husband, Mr Geo. Harry Knighton who died suddenly early on Monday morning from an apoplectic seizure. Mr Knighton was widely known in commercial circles, having had a life-long connection with the Staveley Ironworks, chiefly as foundry manager and also a short connection with the Sheepbridge Company in a similar capacity. The deceased gentleman was only 44 years of age. He was a churchman and a Conservative, and had taken a deep and active interest in local affairs in Staveley for many years. He was a member of the Scarsdale Lodge of Freemasons and a Past Master of the body.
Mr Knighton appeared much in his usual health the day previous and attended morning and evening service at the Sheepbridge Mission Church. After supper he and his wife paid a visit to some friends at Old Whittington. He arose at five o clock on Monday morning and proceeded to take his usual bath. Shortly afterwards he was discovered to be in an unconscious state, and medical assistance was quickly at hand, but the efforts of Dr Palmer were of no avail and he quietly passed away at six o clock.
The interment took place in the pretty little church of Handley where many of his relatives lie, amidst general manifestation of regret. In addition to the immediate relatives and friends a large number of the Staveley Co.'s officials and workmen were present, the coffin which was of polished oak, being borne by old officials and foremen. The officiating clergymen were Canon Molineux, Rector of Staveley, the Rev W L Coleman (curate) and Rev S Biss, Rector of Scarcliffe. The latter intoned the opening sentences of the burial service, the Canon read the lesson and the Rev W L Coleman conducted the closing part of the service. In the church two hymns were feelingly sung, viz. "Day and moments quickly flying" and "On the Resurrection Morn".
The coffin was covered with a number of beautiful wreaths. Mr Edgar Fletcher of Old Whittington had charge of the funeral arrangements.