Obituary - Mrs. Bessie Cole Upward, nee Bessie Cooper

2 November 1948 The Tumut and Adelong Times

The sudden and sad death of Mrs. Bessie Cole Upward eventuated at Gloucester House, Sydney on Friday, 22nd October.

Deceased was the only daughter of Mrs. E. Pearsall, formerly Mrs. James Cooper, of Adelong, and was only 29 years of age at the time of her death. 

Deceased was one of Adelong's brightest personalities and possessed a charming, and delightful character and was extremely popular with all sections of the community.

Before her marriage she took an active part in all social events and functions in the town. 

On 3rd September, 1941, she married First-Class Constable Gordon Hunter Upward and went to live at Bangalow and later at Tabulum on the North Coast, where her husband was in charge of the police station.

Two children were born: Harvey James (6½ years) and Robyn Denise (10 months).

About four months ago Mrs. Upward returned home to Adelong on account of failing health and was admitted to the Wagga Hospital, her husband receiving at the same a transfer to Adelong.

About the middle of July Mrs. Upward was transferred to Gloucester House and was under the care and attention of the best medical men available, including an American specialist in the disease leukaemia, from which Mrs. Upwood succumbed.

During the time she was in hospital her mother was with her daily and her sudden passing came as a terrific shock to the loving mother and husband.

Her remains were brought to Adelong for interment, Messrs. Wood Coffil (Sydney) and Boston Bros. (Adelong) having charge of the funeral arrangements.

Prior to the funeral a service was conducted in the Presbyterian Church, Adelong, by Rev. R. Woodger and Rev. Hayman, of Gundagai, formerly of Tabulum. The cortege was one of the largest seen in Adelong for some years   and the great number present testified to the popularity of the deceased and was genuine expression of sympathy and sorrow towards the sorrowing mother, husband and the two little children. 

Rev. Woodger (Tumut) and Rev. Hayman (Gundagai) conducted the last sad rites at tho graveside. 

Pall bearers were Messrs. Gordon Upward, Lance Upward, Eric Pearsall, Roy Cole, E, Ibbotson and H. Kell, the latter three being uncles of deceased.