James Andrew Vicary

Falling Asleep of Mr. J. A. Vicary.
JAMES VICARY was born at Barnstaple in 1835, and had just passed
his 80th birthday when he was taken to be with Christ. He was converted
at the age of 19 and was baptized by Mr. R. C Chapman in the river.
At the age of 21, he left Barnstaple for Devonport, and two years later,
he married and began business at Plymouth. At this time also he gave
himself very diligently to the service of spreading the gospel in the
neighbourhood. As this work grew in his hands, he gave himself
entirely to it in dependence upon God for the supply of his need.
This was in 1868, and he was soon known in a very much wider area
as an earnest and much used servant of Christ.
In 1873, our brother removed to Bristol, where the matter of building
a hall for the gospel in Newfoundland Gardens was already under
consideration. He pitched a tent in the neighbourhood and held
services nightly for about six months. Meanwhile, the hall was
built in St. Nicholas Road and was opened in January 1875.
Here those who had been brought to God, assembled, being joined
by others who were blessed through the gospel there preached.
From that time, a "Conference" was held annually. At first it was
a kind of anniversary of the opening of the hall, but about twenty-five
years ago, our brother and his fellow-workers more definitely sought
the fellowship and cooperation of older assemblies in Bristol, and
from that time, the notice convening the meeting was signed by
representatives of various assemblies.
Our brother was married twice, and his second wife was taken from
him about five years ago. Of late years, his health failed somewhat,
but he was diligent in service as long as he was able to keep about.
Towards the end of his course, he had a very painful ailment,
and for the last five weeks. suffered severely. But suffering and toil
are now over, and "at home with the Lord" he awaits the blessed
moment of resurrection glory.
“Echoes of Service” 1915