Brevitas -
You ARE good.
Tracking John Bennett Evans...
Makes very much sense.
1841-1871. Griffith must have passed after 1859 birth of Evan (1871 census) and in 1861 little John is with his sister, possible, at the Bennett's, where he undoubtedly wow-ed them, or they, he, and he added that name to his. Interesting. More to learn!
I saw a transcription of 1871 Census, with Jane as wife, no 'carpenter's wife' - which I am glad that you found, it is the best clue.
How did he get to be 'living on own means by 1891?
Must've been by marriage to Mary Elizabeth. He had a Lancashire connection, per your finds, staying with a relative.
The family here in the US says that they were told the family in England was wealthy, but that is not always a reliable story, sort of common to build up ancestors that way. But in this case, it may be true.
I would like to eliminate Elizabeth Jones as a mother of Mary Elizabeth, ... if mother is Ann Elias, that would be an easy, neat tie up.
But these things are not easy usually.
Like you suggested, church records for the marriage and birth of Mary Elizabeth at St. Michaels should point to it.
Is there a way to order the Will of John Jones, online? I am familiar with the Canturbury probates site, not Lancashire...
THANKS SO MUCH for all you have found, this is all very good.