We regret to announce that the death of our fellow townsman, Dr. Wm. Thompson, took place last Monday, after a bried illness of four days, at Cliburn Hall, Penrith, the home of his father-in-law. He left Todmorden on Thursday last for a few days' rest, to join his wife and other friends who were staying at the hall. He went on the journey as far as Preston, where he had to hurry and run through the subway from the East Lancashire to the London and North-Western platform, to catch the north express. This cause great overstrain of the heart, already weak and dilated from long continued chronic bronchitis and asthma. Congestion of the lungs, with edudation of blood into the air cells and tubes followed, and failure of the heart resulted. His brother, Dr. Thompson, of Mytholmroyd, was able to be with him a few hours before his death, but a brief consultation with the medical attendant, Dr. Watson, showed that the case had been hopeless from the first. The deceased leaves a wife and two children, for whom great sympathy has been expressed on all sides. Dr. Thompson was educated at University College, London, and after qualifying commenced practice in Todmorden in 1871, where his practical ability and intense love for his profession soon secured for him a wide connection. He took especial interest in diseases of the eye and ear. His genial and kindly disposition endeared him to his patients. He has passed from our midst deeply regretted by many, and respected by all. The practice will, we understand, be carried on under the superintendence of his brother. The internment will take place at 2-30 p.m. to-day, at Cliburn church.
Besides his extensive private practice, Dr. Thompson has filled offices under the Board of Guardians: for many years he has been the medical officer and public vaccinator for the two highest thirds of Stansfield, and ever since the workhouse was built he has held the appointment of medical attendant there.
Source: Todmorden and District News, May 8, 1885, Page 5