St George’s Church Brockworth
The Reverend J H Seabrook
The Rev. J. H. Seabrook formerly Vicar of Brockworth for 56 years, died on Tuesday morning at his home, Readytoken House, Brockworth He would have been 85 on October 28 1942.
One of the best known and beloved clerics in the Diocese, Vicar Seabrook became Vicar of Brockworth in 1886, having been curate of Atherstone for four years previously.
He quickly gained the confidence and esteem of parishioners with a regard destined to be spread to a wider sphere by reason of his public work. Always keenly alive to the opportunities of service he be-came a member of the Gloucester Board of Guardians and continued for 41 years, being elected chairman.
The members recognised his great service by a presentation to him on the last day of the Board's existence.
One of Mr. Seabrook's greatest interests was cricket, and for over half a century he had been connected with the Gloucester Cricket Club, serving as player, captain and chairman of the committee. He had also been a member of the Council of, the Gloucestershire Cricket Club.
For many years he was a member of the Gloucester Rural District Council.
When in 1936, Mr. Seabrook completed 50 years in the living of Brockworth, every section of the village joined in making a presentation to him as one who had through the long years been a faithful pastor and friend."
None who met Mr. Seabrook ever forgot his forceful but ever benevolent personality. During his conduct of public meetings he could, when the occasion demanded, be stern in demeanour and speech, but his directness was always tempered by a strong sense of humour. In every sphere in which he laboured he gave his best.
Mr. Seabrook, who retired at the end of 1941, had been in failing health for some time before his death.
He and his wife had a family of eight children. Mrs. Seabrook predeceased her husband 11 years ago.
The funeral takes place at Brockworth on Friday at 2.30.
The above is from a newspaper cutting dated 1942.
Mr Seabrook's feat of 56 years, as vicar of the parish can never be repeated because the compulsory retirement age of 70 for clergy in the Church of England prevents it!