It is with deep regret that we report the untimely death of Dr Rynne, residing at Osborne Villa, Queen’s Road, Cheltenham. Having recently taken over the medical practice of Dr Prance, Dr Rynne’s sudden demise was discovered on a Saturday morning at his residence. The respected doctor, who was about 38 years old, had been attending to his patients just the day before.
On the fateful Saturday morning, Dr Rynne, following his routine, went to the bathroom. When an unusual delay ensued, prompting concern, the bathroom was entered, revealing the tragic discovery that Dr Rynne had passed away, found near the bath. Given his history of being prone to apoplexy, it is speculated that an inquest may not be deemed necessary.
The official inquiry took place at Dr Rynne’s residence, No. 1, Osborne Villas, Queen’s Road, Cheltenham, on Monday afternoon, conducted by Divisional Coroner Mr J. Waghorne. The Coroner described the circumstances as “very simple and very sad,” expressing sympathy for the widow and relatives of the deceased.
During the inquiry, Mary Rynne, the widow, provided her account. She noted that her husband had generally enjoyed good health, but approximately five years ago, he experienced something akin to a fit. On the Friday before his passing, he was actively engaged in his medical practice. Mrs. Rynne, who had retired with her husband around 12:30 that night, awoke the next morning to find him absent from her side.
Concerns led to the discovery, initiated by Mrs. Rynne’s brother, Mr O’Mara, who found the lavatory door locked from the inside. Upon forceful entry, Dr Rynne was found lying on the floor, attired in pajamas and slippers.
Stephen O’Mara, the brother-in-law from Limerick, Ireland, arrived for a visit on Friday night and confirmed that the deceased was in good health and spirits at that time. He collabourated with Mrs. Rynne’s account of the discovery and noted that Dr Rynne appeared lifeless when raised from the floor.
Dr John Francis Johns, a local practitioner acquainted with the deceased, presented the findings of a post-mortem examination. The examination revealed that Dr Rynne had suffered from fatty degeneration of the heart, and his demise was attributed to syncope.
The jury, having considered the evidence, returned a verdict in accordance with the medical findings, concluding the inquest into the tragic passing of Dr Rynne. The community mourns the loss of a dedicated physician, and our thoughts go out to his grieving widow and three children.
Gloucester Journal – Saturday 27 July 1907
