Mary & Lilly Tonks

[bobtonks]

Mary Jane Tonks was born in 1880 and Lilly Tonks in 1897. In the 1901 census they were living in Aston with their mother (Elizabeth) and brothers and sisters. Their Dad (Reuben) was in Barrow in Furness, working.

I can't find Mary in 1911 and neither of them in the 1939 register. They were both alive in 1954 as they were recorded in a family Will.

Can anyone help.

Thank you  ... Bob

[sparrett]

Under what names were they mentioned in the will?
Still maiden surname?
Sue

[bobtonks]

Sue

Yes, .. I am almost certain neither of them married and I understood (but not certain) that they lived together in Birmingham in the 1950's.

Bob

[Milliepede]

Mary J Tonks death Birmingham Mar 1968 age 87 is about the right age for your Mary Jane.

[bobtonks]

Thank you for that. Following your info I've just found in FindMyPast ....

Birmingham Post  ... Mary Jane Tonks died 1st March ... sister of Lily.

So I guess that Lily was still alive in 1968.

Bob

[Milliepede]

This one isn't too far out

Lily Tonks age 88
gives a birth date of 22 Nov 1896
died Birmingham 1985

[bobtonks]

Looks good. Interestingly, there is a Lily Tonks, died 1st May 1985 in Probates & Wills (living) in a rest home in Acocks Green that could well be her.

It's odd we can't find her in 1939. I did think that she may be doing military service but at 40 odd years old, I would guess it would be unlikely. Her sister Mary also can't be found!!!

You have found both their deaths which is good ... thank you.

Bob

[Mabel Bagshawe]

Not sure if this is connected, by there's a Mary and Lily Tonks together on the electoral role at 808 Coventry Road, Yardley in 1930, 1935 and 1939

Update - Reuben Tonks lives at this address in the 1920s!

[Mabel Bagshawe]

1939 free search suggests Mary b c1890 & Lily c1903 - however I still think its the right pair. Looking at the same address in 1920, the registered voters are Reuben, William, John & Percy Tonks