Wagga Wagg Advertiser 11 Aug 1891 Page 2
Death of Mr E. B. Tompson, Solicitor, A GENERAL feeling of gloom was cast over Wagga yesterday morning when in became generally known that Mr. E. B. Tompson, solicitor, had died at a late hour on the previous night. For the past two months Mr Tompson was in anything but robust health, suffering acutely at times from rheumatic gout. With praiseworthy energy, however, the deceased gentleman gave as much attention to his business as his illness would permit, although it was evident to his friends that his symptoms were of a painful kind. It was known that he had a robust constitution, and no serious fears were entertained that he would not be able to battle successfully with his illness. Indeed, in the early part of last week he did display some signs of recovery, but unfortunately these only proved transient. On Tuesday night all the more unfavorable symptoms of his illness reasserted themselves, and he was obliged to take to his bed, his sufferings continuing until he was released by death. During the latter part of his illness, Mr. Tompson resided at his father's residence in Tarcutta street, and was attended by Dr. Hillas, who was unremitting in his care. On Sunday night a change for the worse took place,, which excited grave anxiety and Dr. Hillas called Dr. Morgan in for consultation. It was then evident, however, that the patient was fast sinking and that nothing further could be done to prolong life. About half-past 11 o'clock Mr. Tompson passed away, the immediate cause of death being paralysis of the heart. It is no exaggeration to say that the deceased gentleman was one of the most popular members of the legal profession in Wagga, and his loss will be mourned not only by his family, but by his brethren of the profession, and the public generally. He was recognised on all sides as a sound lawyer, and a faithful and kind-hearted friend. As a son and brother he won the enconiums of all who knew him in these capacities, while his qualities as a generous open-hearted citizen made friends for him in every class throughout the community.
Mr. Tompson was the son of Mr. E. H. Tompson, late C.P.S. and Land Agent at Wagga, who still survives. The deceased was born in Gundagai on the 18th December, 1848, and was, consequently, in his 43rd year at the time of his death. When quite a youth, he was articled to his uncle, by marriage, Mr. A. M. Betts, solicitor, of Goulburn, and was admitted as an attorney, solicitor, and proctor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, at Sydney, after passing all the necessary examinations. He shortly afterwards commenced the practice of his profession at Wagga, where he has resided for the past fourteen years. On the death of the late Mr. Campbell, in 1886, Mr. Tompson was appointed Borough Solicitor, a position he has held since then. He was a bachelor, and when some.years younger was an active participator in all athletic sports, and as a cricketer his reputation was widespread, having played in several matches against all England elevens.
At the commencement of the proceedings at the Petty Sessions Court yesterday, Mr. Tompson's death was alluded to. Mr. Fitzhardinge, addressing the Beach, which was occupied by Mr. Baylis, P.M.. said that he took that opportunity of informing the Bench of the death of his friend Mr, E. B. Tompson, the news of which had come as a shock to him when he heard it that morning. He had known Mr. Tompson as a lad, and during , his life he had proved himself a credit to himself and all connected with him. Since he had commenced the practice of his profession he (Mr. Fitzhardinge) had almost daily come in contact with him, and he had always found him a conscientious and upright man in all his dealings, whether professional or otherwise. He had always upheld the dignity of the court, and by his death the profession and the town had lost an able and valuable lawyer. He much regretted the loss. Mr. Baylis fully concurred with Mr Fitzhardinge's remarks. The news had also come as a shock to him that morning. He could recollect Mr. Tompson as a boy, and had seen him grow up to manhood. He had certainly conducted himself before the Bench in a proper manner. It was a great loss to the Bench to lose such an able practitioner, and one who was a credit to the town and all connected with him.
Mr. Tompson's funeral will take place today, at 3 p.m.
Goulburn Herald 12 Aug 1891 page 2
Obituary. An briefly mentioned by telegram in last issue Mr. Edwin Bissel Tompson of Wagga, solicitor, died at the residence of his father (Mr. E. H. Tompson), Tarcutta-street, Wagga, on Sunday last. Deceased was in his forty- third year, and his death was somewhat un- expected. Some time back he complained of rheumatic pains in his body, and took to his bed last Monday week, but no immmedite danger was feared till Sunday last, when he became alarmingly ill. Paralysis and syncope set in and he died about midnight. Mr. Tompson, who was unmarried, was cousin to Mrs. Betts of Goulburn. He served his article with Mr. Betts, and was much liked during his stay in this city. In 1879 he commenced to practise in Wagga, and was at the time of his death solicitor for the borough council. He was, with the exception of Mr. Fitzhardinge, the senior solicitor of that town, and was highly esteemed by his kindness and probity. Mr. Betts left Goulburn, for Wagga by the express train on Monday evening to be present at the funeral, which took place yesterday and was largely attended. |