The Family of James Dobson

James Dobson was a widower with children when he married Nanny (Norris) Cottam. His first wife, also known as Nanny, died on 27 July 1828 and was buried in the churchyard of Croston Parish Church along with their infant son Richard. When John died on 7 February 1851 he was buried with his first family:

"Beneath this stone lieth the remains of Nanny, the wife of James Dobson, of Croston,
who departed this life July 27th 1828, aged 37 years. Also Richard Dobson,
their infant son, who departed this life September 12th 1828, aged 6 weeks. Also the above
James Dobson, who departed this life February 7th 1851, aged 58 years."

In his Will James mentions his sons Henry, John, and James (his executors) and his daughters; Betty, the wife of Richard Heyes of Longton; and Ann, the wife of Richard Howard of Much Hoole. His Will does not mention any wife or widow.