Obituaries Australia

A most painful sensation was created throughout the Mornington district yesterday by the news that Mr George S. Hepburn, of "Koorootang," had met with his death under particularly sad circumstances. The deceased had not enjoyed (good health) and at times he would be seized with intense pains in the head, which were caused, according to a well-known specialist whom he consulted, by temporary congestion of the brain. He bore his sufferings bravely, and although at intervals a feeling of despondency would come over him, no one had the slightest suspicion that he would be prompted to take his own life. But the unexpected really happened. It was only on Thursday afternoon that Mr Hepburn drove into Morningten, and transacted his usual business. He returned home in bright spirits and retired at the usual hour, rising at about 8 o'clock yesterday morning, His wife enquired how he was feeling, and he replied "Very bad, very bad," Without any further explanation, he entered his study, procured a gun and proceeded just outside the kitchen door, where he placed the barrel in his mouth and pulled the trigger. Death was instantaneous. Dr. Somers was immediately sent for, but the unfortunate man was beyond human help. A magisterial enquiry was conducted yesterday afternoon by Mr Armstrong, J.P. when a verdict of suicide during a fit of temporary insanity was returned.

The deceased was 65 years of age, and was born at Smeaton, proceeding to Eton for his education. He leaves a family of two sons and three daughters, two of the latter being at present in England. Mr Hepburn was a partner in the well-known Hepburn Estate, but some 15 years ago he purchased a property on the Esplanade, Mornington, where he has resided ever since. He was one of the leading supporters of the Church of England at Mornington, and was a regular attendent at divine service, in fact it was only on rare occasions that he was absent from church. He was appointed a church warden about 14 years ago, and he carefully carried out his duties right up to the time of his death. When the shire severance took place some 10 years ago, he was elected a member of the Mornington Shire Council, a position that he has retained ever since. He was also a justice of the peace, and esteemed for his sterling qualities, no man being held in greater respect throughout the district. The deepest sympathy is felt for Mrs Hepburn and family in their sad bereavement, all classes deploring the loss of such an estimable gentleman. The remains will be interred in the family's private vault at Smeaton,