BOYLE, James (d.1594), of Hereford.

Boyle belonged to an old Herefordshire family. Although nothing is known about his education, he was described as ‘learned in the laws of the realm’ when appointed deputy justice of Brecon in 1572. In 1576 he was said to have acted as counsellor at the law for 2o years and was a ‘known sober honest man’ when he was considered for possible appointment to the council in the marches.2Flenley, 97; P. H. Williams, Council in the Marches of Wales, 261; Lansd. 111, f. 27.

In his will, made 17 Dec. 1593 and proved 25 Apr. 1594, Boyle expressed the belief that he would be sanctified with the elect and asked to be buried near his mother and father in Hereford cathedral. After granting annuities and small sums of money to many of his children and relatives, he left the residue of his property to his eldest son and sole executor. His wife Anne and three sons-in-law were made overseers.3PCC 35 Dixy.