The subject of this sketch emigrated to Illinois in 1832 and to this county (then unorganized) in 1841, in company with John Brown and wife, Thomas Tucker and family, W. R. Allen and family, Lawson Jennings and wife, Rev. Ephriam Stewart and family and A. W. Allen, all of whom became well known and prominent citizens of this county.
Mr. Allen was married in Illinois to Nancy Childress in 1835, who survives him after 59 years of married life.
He left surviving him the following named children to wit: Emaline Templeman, wife of William A. Templeman, Mary King, wife of Dr. R. D. King of St Joseph, MO., Elizabeth Roberts, wife of James M. Roberts, and the following named grandchildren viz: Mrs Bessie Wanamaker, nee Templeman and wife of George W. Wanamaker Esq., who has been appointed administrator of his estate, John A. Templeman, editor of The Democrat, of this city, Hattie Hohr nee Templeman widow of William Hohr deceased, Emma Templeman, Willie Templeman, Marion Templeman, Charles Allen and Elmer Allen of Colorado, and Robert Allen and John Allen, children of James R. Allen, deceased, and Mary E. Allen, and Vesper Allen, Ada Allen, Francis W. Allen and James W. Allen, children of Willard C. Allen, deceased, and Maud M. Allen, of this city, also the following named great-grandchildren, viz: Bessie Vandivert, daughter of Rosa Vandivert, nee Templeman, deceased, and Dr. A, H. Vandivert of this city, Ernest and Hazel Wanamaker, children of George W. & Bessie Wanamaker, afore mentioned, and Lucile Allen, daughter of Robert L. and Maud Allen.
Elder Allen was converted and became a member of the Christian church in 1837 and in 1838 was ordained an elder or minister of that denomination. When he came to this county in 1841, he was both a pioneer settler and preacher. He preached in numerous localities all over this Grand River country, securing converts to his denomination and organizing churches. He organized the Christian church of Bethany in 1842 at the residence of John Poynter, father of our townsman, Amos Poynter, of which he became and continued to be its pastor till about the war period. Such was his ability and Ernest devotion in his church work, that up to the late war, his church occupied the whole ground, religiously, in Bethany and vicinity. Up to that time no other church organization existed in Bethany. His devotion to his church was remarkable. In addition to giving much of his time to preaching at home and through the surrounding counties, he has, through his whole life, contributed lavishly of his means for the upbuilding of his denomination.
He contributed $1,000 for the erection of the two church houses in Bethany, $550 for the erection of a parsonage, $300 to the Church Extension Fund, $100 to the fund for the support of the superanauted preachers, $1,500 to the Orphan School at Camden Point, Mo., and $2,000 to the Christian College of Albany, Mo. In addition to all this, he, during his life, contributed to the erection of more than 20 church houses of his denomination in different places in this section of Missouri.
Few instances indeed can be found where a preacher, after giving so largely of his time to his duties in preaching, and that, too, with very limited compensation, should have so liberally contributed money for the furthering of the interests of his denomination. Surely his life should occupy a bright page in the history of his church.
Mr. Allen's success in his church work grew out of the mental and moral structure of the man. He was a man of intense convictions, both in matters pertaining to religion and politics. Like most men of strong convictions, he was somewhat inclined to be prejudiced against those who stood in opposition. This, however, should not be considered at least a very serious criticism, for my experience in life leads me to believe that a man with strong convictions and strong prejudices accomplishes more good and achieves greater success than one without convictions. This, however, does not preclude the truth of the proposition, that strong convictions without prejudice is the standard to which we should aspire. But our human nature is such, that, as a rule, strong convictions and prejudice against opponents go hand in hand. There are exceptions to this rule. One exception, indeed was so perfect and glorious that the world has gazed upon it with reverence and admiration for a generation. Abraham Lincoln was a man of the most earnest convictions yet he was absolutely tolerant, charitable and unprejudiced toward those who differed with him.
When the locality upon which this city is built was elected for the county seat, Mr. Allen was appointed by the county court as Commissioner to purchase the land, plat the town and sell the lots, and is entitled to the honor of being the founder of Bethany. I trust his friends will not consider me irreverent, in such a connection as this, if I should barely suggest that his capacity as a preacher, a businessman and as an orator, was somewhat in excess of his capacity as a plat maker of a new town. Mr. Allen held the office of County and Circuit Clerk about the time of the organization of this county.
One of the most remarkable traits of Mr. Allen was his independence of his environments in the formation of his opinoins and his moral courage or courage of his convictions. In the exercises of his judgement he seemed never to regard what others thought, but followed his own intellectual process. One of the most remarkable illustrations of his moral courage occurred in 1859. At Fairview church, in what was then Sugar Creek township, in this county, there was held a joint discussion between the Rev. Henry Howe, of the Methodist church, upon the question in substance: Does the Bible teach that human slavery is right? Rev. Planck took the affirmative and the Rev. Howe the negaitve. Mr. Howe, in his argument, denied that the great God of this universe taught in His revealed word, that slavery was right. For so denying in effect shortly after the discussion the Rev. Howe was arrested upon a criminal charge under the slave code of Missouri and brought to Bethany for trial. Mr. Allen deeming the arrest unfair and an infringement of the right of free speech, volunteered to defend Mr. Howe who belonged to a church he did not approve, and who had been opposed by Rev. Planck who belonged to his own denomination. No one coming on to life's stage since the war can in any degree appreciate the independence and moral courage manifested by Mr. Allen in thus volunteering to defend Mr. Howe. Mr. Allen was born and raised in the south. His environments politically and to some extent religously were pro-southern and pro-slavery. This county then was pro-slavery six to one, and the older citizens well know how cruel, relentless and intolerant were the pro-slavery men as a rule in slave states against even the slightest manifestation of sympathy for men who were in any degree anti-slavery. Throwing all these things aside, facing the obloquy of his best friends, casting from him the influence of his birth and early life, thinking only of the right as God gave him to see the right, he walked erect and defieant down to the court house and tendered without pecuniary reward his services to defend this unpopular preacher, and his then unpopular cause. Largely through his services and influence the prosecution ultimately was dismissed. This, to my mind, well constitutes one of the brightest pages of his history. Hundreds of the older citizens in this section of the state will reverently treasure in their memories, so long as life lasts this trial and the brave man who dared to defend an unpopular cause, because he deemed it right. The war came and thousands of good men in the border slave states were hesitating as to which side they ought to take. Not so with Mr. Allen. Without waiting to see which side would be the most popular, he came out boldly for the union and the old flag. He became a candidate for and was elected a delegate in 1861 to the state convention to consider the relations of the state to the federal union. This convention was the most important deliberate body ever assembled in this state and it saved Missouri to the union. History does not quite sufficiently attach importance to the attitidue of the border slave states in the great work of preserving the union. The speech of S. A. Douglas at Springfield, Ill., May 1, 1861, the efforts of J. J. Crittenden, of Kentucky, operating nationally by their prominence, and the bold and outspoken position of hundreds of such men as John S. Allen, operating locally in the border states, together with the conservatism and tact of Abraham Lincoln, saved the border states to the union.
Mr. Allen was a many sided man. Successful as a preacher, in the political field as an ardent democrat whenever he chose to enter that arena, and as a businessman. He accumulated more property during his life than is usual for a clergyman. He was much sought after in financial enterprises, for he had the qualities that make a successful businessman. Prudent in expenditure, conservative in investments, and above all having absolute integrity, he secured that reputation which gave credit to any financial enterprise with which his name was connected. He was president of the Behtany Savings Bank for 20 years. He was a director of a bank in Chillicothe, MO., and was connected with several other banks in the state.
For a long time in Bethany he was almost the only man who would denounce publicly the sale and use of intoxicants as a beverage. The healthy sentiments (compared to other towns) in Bethany on the temperance question by which no saloon has ever been in this town for 30 years, is largely due to his work in that line. He had the attributes of an orator. His voice was pleasant, has manner dignified, his argument clear, he had also wit and humor. He had one deficiency, he lacked ambition for worldly fame and power. But for this I have always thought since I became acquainted with him he might have attained a national reputation. Yet he was not singular in this. The world is full of mute, inglorious Miltons whose fame is unsung because they cared not for it. About 20 years ago some person in this town published an article in one of our town papers charging him with inconsistency and hypocrisy on the temperance question. On the next Sabbath he announced in church that on a given night named during the following week he would reply to these strictures upon his character. The night came and the church was full. For once at least, Mr Allen was fully aroused. I never heard a better speech in all that constitutes a great speech, to wit, argument, biting sarcasm, with and pathos. The effect upon the audience was marked. His newspaper advocary was annihilated, his pen stopped and no reply was ever heard of in newspaper or other place. What he did that night indicated to me that he could achieve success as a debater in a deliberative body.
Mr. Allen was tender and affectionate in his domestic relations. He loved his home better than any place on earth except, perhaps, his church house. Do we always appreciate what it is to have a good home and to love it? The home is the nursery of the church; the foundation of our social and political life. Thoughts of home are the sweetest on earth; home scenes and associations are the dearest to our hearts. Payne wrote a song about home. It had no literary merit, yet it is sung and read more often than any other, because the song is of home and its dearly loved scenes. At the World's Fair in the Art Gallery were grand pictures by famous artists. Near these grand pictures was a small one representing a tender home scene. The crowds that gathered around this home picture were many times larger and lingered much longer than at any of the great pictures near it.
With advancing age, Mr. Allen and his aged wife moved down the decline of life hand in hand, heart to heart. At night they would meet at the old fashioned fire place and talked about the past when life was young and their hope of that future that endeth not.
The 59th anniversary was approaching and sickness came to both.
The aged wife and mother earnestly expressed the hope that she would go before him. But that was not to be. He has gone before, and she is left. But listen venerable widow, keep a cheerful heart, for according to the course of nature you too will soon pass over to the "golden shore" where your 59 years of wedded life and home communion will, as we all hope, expand to a time that hath no end, as is promised to those who love the Lord and keep his commandments.
D. S. Alvord
The Democrat takes great pleasure in reproducing the following tributes to the memory of Eld. John S. Allen.
After giving a biographical sketch and review of his life's work, Col. D. J. Heaston contributes the following to the Ridgeway Journal:
"I believe he was the most even tempered man that I ever knew. At all times, in all places and under all circumstances, he was the same calm, cool and consistent Christian gentleman. With him there was no high tide and no low tide, but the same constant, unhurried, everflowing stream, as if supplied from the same unvarying foutain. It may be permitted me to echo what I believe to be the general sentiment of esteem in which he was held by all who knew him. As a man he was frank in disposition, courteous in manner, generous in spirit, brave in principle, true to every trust reposed in him. There was about him no pomp, ostentation or desire to be conspicuous, but on the contrary he was modest, retiring, somewhat reticent and therefore needed to be thoroughly and closely clutivated to be fully understood and appreciated. He was not ambitious of outward show, notoriety, or political distinction, but all he did was in the spirit of meekness, and for the advancement of the Master's cause. He hated shams and false teachings, and despised hypocracy. He felt that it was his duty to antagonize error, and to fight sin. He was an uncompromising temperance man, because he believed that intoxicating liquors were the cause of much sin and misery. He said to me once that he disliked making temperance speeches, because he could hardly do so without offending somebody and a temperance speech that did not attack the rum traffic had as well not be made. In his kindness of heart he was sorry to hurt the feelings of even the rum seller.
Parson Allen had but poor school privileges when young, but by extensive reading and close observation of men and things, he became a well informed man. He was not an orator, but he could speak well. He spoke from the sincerity of motive and was filled with an honest conviction of right and duty, and this made him always appear earnest. He spoke from the heart and generally reached the heart. He had a superb voice, clear and crystal and ringing like a bell. He had a commanding appearance and large brain, and when he arose before an audience he attracted their attention at once and held it until he closed. He was an original thinker and naturally witty, and seasoned his addressess with enough wit to please, while it entertained and convinced. He spoke to the common understanding. He carried conviction by conviction. He interested his hearers by the honest utterence and honest faith of an honest and sincere man. He believed what he said, and a zeal which only comes from devotion to truth, kindled corresponding fires in the hearts of his hearers. He was simple, plain and honest in his every day life, and his purity of character was a great element of his strength. The personal character of Parson Allen was full of noble qualities, endearing him to his friends while living and making his memory a constant delight. Kindness of heart seemed to mellow his whole nature. There was in him neither envy nor hate, and only generosity, charity and good will. In many respects Parson Allen was a remarkable man, For the past fifty years he has been the most prominent and remarkable man in our county. To him are we more indebted for good society, for religious development and for all that makes our people happy and good than any other man that ever lived in the county. "With charity for all and malice toward none," he went about among his neighbors doing good. It was his mission to "preach the word", to help the poor and to aid the deserving. Every good work received his pure heart and noble soul. He had the zeal of a martyr and the valor of a patriot. In him was greatness, but it was the greatness of unselfishness, gentle and pure as the heart of a child. In him was charity - charity white and gentle as the moonlight that shines into the shadows of night. In him there was heroism - it was the heroism of the knight that draws no sword, but waved in his hand, high above his benevolent brow, the sacred wand of religion, of love, of fraternity. By reason of strength and good habits his life was lengthened out to the Psalmist's four score years. But now he is gone. He has fallen like the mighty oak in the stillness of the forest. We can only mourn his loss, and indulge the fond hope that the good he has done may live after him, that this sad bereavement may do much to seal the truths he so long taught, that his public utterances like good seed sown upon fertile soil may continue to bring forth good fruits of an hundred fold, and that the hearts of his neighbors may be brought together in a union of fraternal fellowship and love. Having known Parson Allen intimately for more than a third of a century, having counseled and associated with him closely, and having been in perfect accord with him on nearly every question, I deem it a pleasure to bear witness to his many good qualities of head and heart, to make this statement voluntarily and without solicitation, to pay this tribute of respect to one I have known and admired so long. Farewell kind teacher, dear friend, farewell."
W. H. Hillman, who will be remembered by all the old settlers, writes the following from Kansas to the Albany Ledger:
"In looking over the Albany Ledger of 22nd inst., I noticed that Elder J. S. Allen departed this life recently at his late residence in Behtany, Mo. I understand he died in his 80th year. The writer of this paper heard him preach the gospel of Christ forty years ago this winter in Bethany, Mo. Then I was 16 years old, now I am 56 years old.
Elder J. S. Allen's life was one that is pleasant to remember. For nearly 36 years he was our pastor in the Christian church at Bethany, so your readers can see that I knew him intimately - for about forty years, and all this time his life was full of beneficent labors, rich in good deeds, abounding in helpfulness; so today I am glad to be able to testify to his uniform kindness and his absolute integrity of character. Integrity expresses well his character. It means unbrokenness, wholeness, soundness. His purposes were pure; he was honest under all circumstances - in the church, in the family, in society. Bro. Allen was thoughtful for others. In business he was energetic and successful, but he never gave place in his heart to avarice. Truly, in the death of Elder Allen, a prince and a great man has fallen from among the people at Bethany. Mr. Editor, should I dictate his epitaph, I would like to write this: "Here lies an honest man, a friend and a believer in humanity. He sought to make the world better for having lived in it. He was not narrow minded. He accepted the world as his country; his leading theme, the gospel of the son of God, and to do good was his religion." Farewell, Brother Allen; we loved you in this world, and we love your memory still."
Deceased was a member of the Christian church at Mt. Gilead. She had suffered many years, but bore her suffering patiently and passed quietly away. She was the mother of nine children, four of whom are still living. Three were present during the last sickness, one lives in Kansas.
Mother Allen was a lady of strong mind and force of character, a true wife, a devoted mother, kind and attentive to the sick, and would do all in her power to make others happy.
The funeral was preached by the writer at Mt Gilead, in the presence of a large gathering of relatives and neighbors, after which her remains were taken to the Allen cemetery and laid to rest, where many of her old time friends and relatives were sleeping.
--- J. H. Coffey
The body was cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at Resthaven Mortuary of Trenton.
Mr. Axsom was born on June 17, 1944 in Cainsville, MO the son of Alfred and Pauline (Shafer) Axsom. He attended Trenton High School. He was married to Janet Brown on June 2, 1963 in Trenton, MO. He farmed and worked for Coon Manufacturing. He enjoyed his family, fishing, and his farm life.
He is survived by his wife, Janet Axsom of Spickard, MO; 3 daughters, Debbie Dailey and her husband, Kevin of Mercer, MO, Lisa Butler and her husband, Tom of Belle, MO, and Brenda Axsom of Spickard, MO; a son, John Axsom of Kirksville, MO; 2 sisters, Mary Johnson of Independence, MO and Freeda Haggard and her husband, Jerry of Redding, CA; 9 grandchildren, Koren Wills, K.J. Dailey, Katie Dailey, Max Butler, Logan Butler, Rachelle Crabb, Sarah Crabb, Seth Crabb, and Brent Crabb; also surviving are 4 nieces and 3 nephews
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Roger Axsom.
The family has suggested memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, they may be left at or mailed to Resthaven Mortuary, P.O. Box 587, Trenton, MO 64683.
Submitter's note: Nona's middle name was MAY, not Mary. The surviving sister was ANNA, not Anne.
Coroner's Jury Renders Verdict of Suicide, But Relatives Think He Was Murdered
Ora Axsom a resident of this section for the past fifteen years, was seriously shot and killed early Monday morning at Stratton, Nebraska.
The body of the slain man was in the basement of a barber shop where a card game had been in progress during Sunday night.
It has been possible for Yuma people to obtain only very meager reports of the tragedy. The only communication received directly was the statement from Stratton that Ora Axsom had shot himself to death and an inquest would be held. But no word in Yuma has been officially received as to the result of that inquest. It was learned from Stratton that the coroner's jury reached a verdict of suicide. But friends who have seen the body reject the idea of a self-inflicted wound. They point to the fact that the deceased's head showed no sign of ? or powder marks. They insist that if the man had held the gun to his head and fired, the explosion would have left some marks. They insist that the man would have been compelled to hold his hand in a very awkward position to fire the shot.
It was reported that the coroner's jury was over 18 hours reaching a verdict with no indications that Axsom met his death by other than his own hands. A son is expected to go to Stratton today and further investigate the shooting and place the case in the hands of the district attorney.
His wife and seven children, six sons and one girl, besides his mother and other relatives survive him. During the past several months Mrs. Axsom and the youngest children have been residing in Greeley, this state, the children attending school in that city. The older boys have been attending to the farm work while their parents were away. One of the sons went to Greeley as soon as he heard of the tragedy and brought Mrs. Axsom and the young children back to Yuma.
The funeral was held from the Yuma Methodist Church Wednesday afternoon, August 27, Rev. William I. Jones officiating and the interment was at the Yuma Cemetery.
A short time after their marriage Mrs. Bailey's health began to fail, and last night death released her from her terrible sufferings, which only those who are victims of the dreaded disease, consumption, can understand.
Mrs. Bailey was l8 years old and a native of Mo. She came here last winter and made her home with Mrs. Refine Harvey. After her marriage she lived with her husband and his family at the Union House, where she has been confirmed invalid during her married life. She will be buried tomorrow at Andover, Mo., where her mother lies, and where she requested them to place her.
Her life has been one of simple Christianity, which makes death sweet by the knowledge that there is a happy home awaiting her, where cares and sickness are unknown. Mr. Bailey has the sympathy of his many friends who mourn with him for the loss of his wife.
She acted her part in all that went to make the state what it is today. She was industrious and persevering, a good nabor (sic) and friend and was loved by all who knew her. Years ago her husband went to Arkansas where he died, and she came back to make her home among her kindred.
Funeral services were held at the Cain Church Monday, Jan. 29, at 3 p.m. in the presence of a large audience of friends who came to show their love and respect for her. The entire service was a tender one and she is embalmed in our tears. The lesson was part of I Cor. 15:19. "Hope after Death" was the thought. The song service was good. After the parting look was taken we laid her to rest beside many of her kindred and friends of 60 or 70 years ago.
J.H. Burrows
(Please see biography on Bio page.)
Julia Etta Bonifield was born near Zanesville, Ohio, January 4, 1847, one of a family of nine children and passed on to her reward at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lela Brower, in Cameron, October 14, 1936, at the age of 89 years, 10 months and 10 days. She was converted in the Methodist Church at Afton, Iowa, in 1863, under the preaching of the Rev. Williams. In November 1866 she was united in marriage to John Carper Beebe. To this union were born five daughters and two sons. These were: Iona Beebe now deceased; Candy Beebe now deceased; Mrs. Josie Pierce now deceased; Mrs. Lela Brower of Cameron, Mo; John Beebe of Cainsville, Mo; Mrs. Daisy Thompson of Cainsville, Mo; and Mrs. Vernell Baker of Kansas City, Mo. She also had three step daughters: Mrs. Dora Booze of St. Joseph, Mo; Mrs. Kate Risser of Chicago, IL now deceased; and Mrs. Jennie McClellan of Mount Vernon, Oh. She leaves twenty living grandchildren, twenty-three great grand children, and one great-great grandchild. Mrs. Beebe lived in Cainsville for some sixty years. In 1918 she moved to Cameron to live with her daughter Lela.
Aunt Julie, or Grandma Beebe, as she was known to all her friends, was always active in church work until her health and eye-eight failed nine years ago. She was always ready with willing heart and hands to help in any way possible. She was a member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. When in Cainsville she served as president of the Ladies Aid Society and helped to organize the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society there, which society was named for her. Her children were all with her in her last illness. Her prayers and pleadings for her friends, her children and even the whole world will ever live in their hearts. A short time before she passed away, about two days, she sang, "Abide with Me," and "God will take Care of You," as Ailene played for her.
Friday, October 1st, she said "I remember a piece of poetry I recited sixty years ago. I think I can repeat it now. Write it down." And she recited again a piece of verse which was published in 1876 in a Princeton, Mo news paper and committed to memory by heart that time. The poem is:
Our lives are crowded with fears,
Repeating again and again,
As our feeble hands have vainly tried
To straighten the tangled skein.
'Tis a sad voice of memory whispers
Of a robe of innocence worn,
When young hearts pure and stainless stood
At the rosy gates of morn.
Have you raised your eyes in pleading
As heavens pure smiling bloom,
And longed with unspoken languish
To begin your lives anew?
Have you made a few feeble efforts
To reach the gates of gold;
While the eyes of the world are looking
Watching you stern and cold?
The world saw only the fearful fall,
When we slipped from the narrow way;
But God sees the dark temptation
That leads our feet astray
.
They may point with mocking laughter
To the waste and barren lands;
For God sees the dark temptation
That binds our helpless hands.
For His ears are never heavy
Nor His eyes are never dim;
For what the world misunderstands
Is clear as light to Him.
The sun keeps steadily shining,
Though the skies be overcast,
And patient toiling efforts
Will untangle the skein at last.
Funeral services were held Thursday morning at nine o'clock, in Cameron, conducted by Rev. M.M. Wolff. The remains were then brought to Cainsville, where another service was held at 2 p.m., Rev. Wolff being assisted in the service by Rev. Clay. She was laid to rest in the Akron Cemetery.
Once again the death angel has visited our midst and called home another highly respected citizen and friend, Gabriel Bell. He was born November 22, 1840, at Borden, Clark County, Ind., and died March 3, 1909, at the home of his son Mark Bell, in Pawnee, MO. He was 69 years 4 months and 9 days old. He was married to Indiana Baggerly, January 10, 1861 at Borden, Indiana. To this union ten children were born, seven sons and three daughters. One son and one daughter died in infancy. Six sons and two daughters survive him; George and David Bell of Wray, Colorado; Mark Bell of Pawnee, Missouri; Mrs. Ida Daum of Hatfield, Mo; Jason and John Bell of Pawnee; Virgil Bell of Hatfield, Missouri; and Mrs. Lulu Thraikill of Pawnee, Missouri. Four sons and one daughter were at his bedside. Lulu was sick and was unable to be there, and George and David were unable to be there from Colorado.
He moved, with his family, from Indiana to Taylorsville, Ill., in 1875 and remained there until 1876; then he moved to Pawnee, Mo. In 1900 he began to carry the Star Mail from Hatfield to Eglinth. Then he moved to Hatfield, making it more convenient for his business. He lived there seven years. After quitting the mail route, he returned to the farm. In 1870 he united with the Christian Church. In later years he changed his membership to Saint Church and lived a Christian until death called him home. He was loved by all who knew him and was always so cheerful. It seemed as though he tried to look on the bright side of life. It was only ten months ago that his darling companion preceded him to the beyond. He was only sick about two weeks with pneumonia. He told them all that he did not want to get well and that he was prepared to go. He called the children to his bedside a few hours before his death and told them all to live so as to meet him in a better world, and that he wanted all things straightened up and to always remain loving brothers and sisters and not to have any trouble. His last words were of Lulu, who was unable to be at his bedside.
It seemed since his wife's death that he was always longing to be with her. He has only one brother living, and he resides in Indiana, but was unable to be there. He leaves six sons and 2 daughters and 1 nephew, Thomas Bell, of Pawnee, Missouri, and several grandchildren to mourn his death. Funeral services were conducted Saturday at 11 o'clock at the hall by Elder Snively, where a large congregation assembled to pay their last tribute of respect and show something of the esteem in which he was held in the community in which he lived. He was laid to rest in the Payne Cemetery. Sympathy is extended to the bereaved ones in the hour of trouble. Thus one by one we are passing on and one by one we are crossing the silent river to the great unknown - Yet while life's chain is never really broken and each link must fall away in death, we must turn thought and hope to the land where parting is unknown.
(Written by Evelyn Shackleton)
Dr. Charles J. Blackburn was born in Charlottesville, Va., February 11, 1826, and died at his home in this city at one o'clock a.m. January 19, 1907, thus closing a long and useful life.
Dr. Blackburn was reared at Staunton, Va., where he received his education. He left his native state in 1844 and came to St Louis, Mo., where he began the study of medicine. Two years later he went to Memphis, Mo., and entered the drug store of Dr. Hudnall, and began the practice of medicine a year later in partnership with Dr. Hudnall, and was married to Ermina E. Hudnall in 1847.
Of this union ten children were born: Mrs Arabella Newman, deceased; Mrs Kate Taylor, of this city; Charles, died in infancy; Paul Guy, died in infancy; Mrs Clara Dunn, of this city; Alice, died in infancy; W. L. of Oklahoma; Claud, deceased; Mrs Nellie Prentiss, of this city; and Mrs Grace Derry of Oklahoma.
Mrs Blackburn died, from an accident, in July, 1884, and in 1885 Dr. Blackburn was united in marriage with Miss Ella Prentiss, a daughter of the late General B. M. Prentiss, of this city, who survives him.
Dr. Blackburn made the trip, overland, to California in 1849, returning in 1851. After practicing his profession in Howard County, Mo., for a short time, he came to Bethany in July, 1854, which has ever since been his home. He at once acquired a large and lucrative practice and was very successful. He possessed the starling and hustling qualities of the Missouri pioneer, and soon extended his business to farming, stock raising and general merchandising, at all of which he was successful. He was postmaster of Bethany during the latter part of President Buchanan's administration. He was the supervising architect in building the first brick court house and jail in Harrison county. His last service in this line was superintending the building of the beautiful Christian church of this city.
During a protracted meeting held here in 1861, Dr. Blackburn became a member of the Christian church, under the preaching of Elder W. D. Stewart. He served the church as an elder for a number of years, but when his health failed, five or six years ago, he requested to be relieved from active duty, but the church was loth to lose his services and they selected some younger and more active man, but continued him as an advisor and life member of the official board.
Funeral services were held from the Christian church at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan 21, 1907, conducted by his pastor, Eld T. J. Golightly, assisted by Rev. Hood, of the Presbyterian church, and Rev Reed of the M. E. churches. Elder Golightly spoke from Rev. 14:13, to a large and attentive audience. The floral offerings were many and beautiful. After the funeral, all that was mortal of Charles J. Blackburn was laid to rest in Miriam cemetery, under auspices of the Bethany Lodge No. 97, A.F. & A.M., of which he had been a member for more than half a century.
The family has the deepest sympathy of the entire community. Dr. Blackburn was a kind husband, an indulgent parent and of a generous disposition. His name is indelibly stamped on enterprises of Bethany, and is a rich heritage to his children.
[NOTE] The above article also contains a picture of Dr. Blackburn. Information indicates that Charles Blackburn may have been the son of Thomas Rolander Blackburn and Mary Ann Wright. The obituary also contains a lengthy tribute by the Masonic lodge.
She was a devoted Christian, having joined the Christian church at Ridgeway when eighteen years of age. She passed quietly away to join her Savior, whom she has been serving. We extend our sympathy to her bereaved parents, and hope they may all be prepared to meet her in Heaven.
(Note: The other two were Levi Grant and John Ruff. Please see alphabetically.)
She was married to Santford C. Boyd on January 12, 1884, and to this union ten children were born. Maude Maroney, Cora Axsom, Alva Boyd, Alfred Boyd, Daisy Axsom, Gilbert Boyd, Mamie Flanagan, Edith King, Madge Hamilton, and Clark Boyd.
Mrs. Boyd was a grandmother many times over, having twenty four grandchildren, 73 great grandchildren, and 24 great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters Mrs. Dove Moore and Gerogie Meadows.
Her husband and three children have preceeded her in death. She was baptized into the Christian Church at Fairview, by uncle Billie Moore& had remained steadfast to her faith ever since, attending church even more than her feeble strength would allow. She now leaves to mourn her passing, many endearing friends and a host of relatives.
Life's labor done, as sinks the day
Light from it's load the spirit flies;
While heaven and earth combine to say,
"How blest the righteous, when he dies!"
Crossing the Bar
Sunset and evening star, and one clear call for me,
And may there be no moaning at the bar, when I put out to sea,
Twilight and evening bell, and after that the dark,
And may there be no sadness of farewell, when I embark.
And though from out our borne of time and place, the flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face, when I have crossed the bar.
Services were held from the Christian Church in Cainsville, Tuesday afternoon December 29, 1959 at 2:00 o'clock, with the Rev. Glenn Wilson officiating.
Mrs. Orel Hrdlicka and Mrs. Helen Bauer sang "Does Jesus Care", "God Will Take Care of You", and "Asleep in Jesus". accompanied at the piano by Mrs. W.S. Colville.
Pallbearers were Harold Flanagan, Warren Boyd, William Boyd, Harley Flanagan, Julian Heitz, and James Boyd.
Flower bearers were Mrs. Julian Heitz, Mrs. Slyvia Flanagan, Helen Dingman, Beatrice Boyd, Nadine Boyd, and Ruth Dale.
Interment was made in the Fairview Cemetery, E.J. Stoklasa, Mortician, in charge.
Card of thanks
Our heartfelt thanks to all who extended comforting sympathy and help in our recent sorrow. For the beautiful service, floral offerings and other kindnesses, we are deeply grateful.
Cora Axsom and family
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Boyd and family
Daisy Axsom and family
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Boyd and family
Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Flanagan and family
Mr. and Mrs. Cliff King and family
Mr. and Mrs. Clark Boyd
Melvin Maroney and family.
She owned the home where she died. She had no living relatives, and she left her property by will to Miriam Lodge, I.O.O.F. for the upkeep of her lot in Miriam cemetery, where she and her husband are buried. A goodly number of her own race and many of her white neighbors and friends attended her funeral. A few weeks ago she suffered a stroke of paralysis which was very severe, and from which she was unable to recover, although the very best medical attention was bestowed and in her last moments she was given the kindest care and attention.
Her's was a useful and helpful life, thoroughly Christian in its entirety, the kind that serves the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven. Aunt Jane belonged to a type of her race that is rapidly passing away, and the world is the richer for their unselfish and devoted lives.
The funeral was held at the home on Thursday, June 7, 1917, conducted by Rev L. Layman, local pastor of the Presbyterian church, and interment in beautiful Miriam cemetery. Scripture used, Rev 22:2-5.
The body was interred in the Masonic cemetery.
The subject of this sketch was born in Lawrence county, Indiana, June 21st, 1819. He came of German parentage. His father, Thomas Brinigar was born in North Carolina, and his mother, Barbara Stipp, was born in old Virginia. On Dec 6th, 1849, he was united in marriage to Emily Kreamer, and to this union were born four children, two sons and two daughters, Thomas Brinigar, who resides only a quarter of a mile from the old home place; W. J. Brinigar, with whom the old folks made their home, Mrs. Ellen Hurd, wife of W. W. Hurd, and Mrs. Luella Wilson, of this place. Besides the children he leaves an aged wife to mourn his departure.
In June, 1876 he emigrated to this state and settled in the home near Blythedale on which he resided until called to his reward, Dec 19, 1910, aged 91 years, 5 months and 28 days. In politics he was a staunch Democrat and was a devout Methodist, but for several years previous to his death was not identified with any religious denomination.
God had blessed him with a robust constitution and the activities of life in his advanced years were much more than the ordinary, and, believing in the theory that it was better to "wear out than rust out," he could be seen almost daily going about the place doing light choring, or, until the last few months, walking to town a distance of one and a half miles, to while away a few hours in social conversation or visit a few hours with a favorite daughter. He took a great interest in the activities of life and was always ready to discuss the leading issues of the day. The hospitality of the Brinigar home was known for miles around and no man seemed more pleased to visit with friends than he. He looked on the bright side of life and was always ready to crack a joke with his friends. His illness was of short duration, only a few hours, for the sun of life was gradually sinking, and he realized that the summons was near.
NOTE: Michael Brinigar and Emily Brinigar (along with other family members) are buried at Cedar Hill Cemetery on the west edge of Blythdale, Harrison County, Missouri.
May God abundantly bless the aged companion and sorrowing children and friends is the prayer of their friend and brother.
---- V. M. Harper
In 1864 he enlisted in the army and served to the end of the war, since then he has lived a quiet retiring life. He came to this country in an early day and has seen this country develop from a will uncivilized country to what it is now. He was a man that took a great deal of interest in education having served 40 years continuously as a school director. The latch string of his door was always long on the outside and no one was ever turned away from his door. He lived in Clay township 51 years and never was known to have a law suit. His only religion was Charity backed by the golden rule.
Funeral services for Fern Brown will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 29, 2004 at the Whitaker-Eads Funeral Home in Trenton. Burial will be in the Rural Dale Cemetery, east of Trenton.
A family visitation is scheduled one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home.
Miss Brown, an 85-year-old resident of 1713 Bolser St. in Trenton, died at 7:10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2004 at her home. The family suggests memorials to the American Cancer Society.
Note: Fern Brown was born and raised in Brimson, Missouri. She was the sister of Lawrence Dale Brown.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday, June 11, 2012 at Whitaker-Eads Funeral Home in Trenton. Burial will be at the Cat Creek Cemetery.
Open visitation will begin at noon on Saturday, June 9, 2012.
Mrs. Brown was born October 10, 1922, the daughter of Thomas Witten Maxwell and Gilly Mae Higdon of the Cat Creek community. She attended Stephens and Metcalf grade schools, Brimson and Gilman City high schools, Trenton Junior College and Northeast Missouri State University of Kirksville.
On Aug. 9, 1945 she married Lawrence Dale Brown, who preceded her in death on Sept. 17, 1987.
In addition to working on the family farm, Mrs. Brown taught school in Harrison and Grundy County. In 1961 she moved to Kansas City and taught for 21 years at Hickman Mills in South Kansas City. She retired to the farm in May 1982 after 31 years of teaching.
She enjoyed family history and worked on the Brimson History book and operated a grocery store in Brimson after retiring. She also enjoyed keeping busy with other business ventures.
Surviving relative include nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sons, Lawrence Gale Brown and a stillborn son Glen Dale Brown; five brothers, James, Eugene, Joseph Henry, LeLand and John Maxwell; and two sisters, Evie Maxwell and Grace Brown.
Memorial donations are suggested to the Green Hills Animal Shelter.
Online condolences may be left at whitakereads.com.
Early in life Mrs. Bryant became a member of the Christian church and was a consistant Christian the balance of her life. Mrs. Bryant was retiring in disposition and kindly to all. Those who knew her most intimately loved her best. She was sick but a few days and seemed to suffer but little. From the first day of her sickness her recovery, owing to her extreme age, was not expected. Her long life is now closed on earth and she will doubtless meet the reward that the righteous may expect. Peace to her memory.
She professed faith in Christ and joined the Christian church at Bethany during the pastorate of Rev. Orahood.
Her funeral was held at the Christian church Sunday afternoon, December 24th, by the writer, assisted by the pastor, Rev. John Young. A large company of people was in attendance at her funeral to bear testimony to their love for the deceased.
Sister Buck was a kind, unselfish woman always looking to the interest and comfort of others. From the day she gave her heart to her Master she never forgot to trust Him. During her two or more years of affliction she was patient and sumissive to the ordeal she was passing through. She spent the last days of her life in praising God in song. She leaves her husband and relatives and a host of friends with a sad heart until they shall come into the greater life with her beyond the skies. Little Velma will not be privileged to know the sweet love of a dear good mother, but tender hands will watch over her and make her life as bright and happy as possible.
It was the writer's pleasant duty to unite her to Brother Buck on the above named date, and it was his sad duty to stand by her grave and perform the solemn duty in committing her body to the earth. May God extend His comfort to all the sorrowing hearts and guard every step of the dear little motherless daughter.
W. J. Willis
Lizzie Lillian, infant daughter of the above was born May 19th, 1876 died May 29th, 1876.
Deceased was born June 7, 1831 in Carroll County, Ohio. Her maiden name was Henry. She was married December 25, 1854 in the same state to Mr George Burris, who passed to the "Great Beyond" on the 8th day of May, 1893. To them were born ten children, seven of whom are living, namely, Frank P. Burris of Harrison county, Missouri; Mrs. Wiltha E. Mitchem of Grimes, Oklahoma; Mrs. Sarah C, Howell of Davis City, Iowa; Mrs. Lydia E. Hughes of Durham, Oklahoma; Mrs. Mary A Daily of Harrison County, Mo; Miss Cora B. Burris of Bethany, and Mrs. Susie B. Rucker of Norman, Oklahoma. All of these have families of their own, except one. There are thirty-two grandchildren.
Mr. and Mrs. Burris came to this county about fifty years ago, and settled on a farm six miles south of Bethany, where they built up one of the best homes in Harrison county. There their children were reared, and about twenty-two years ago, they removed to Bethany where they resided up to the time of their deaths.
It was just five weeks to a day, she with her daughter, Cora, went to Oklahoma to spend a few months visit with her daughter, Mrs. Rucker. Her trip out there was greatly enjoyed by her and she seemed so pleased at the change, and was in more than usually good health and spirits until taken suddenly down with the fatal disease. It was not from the effects of cold, but rather a sudden congestion of the lungs. Her sufferings were not great, but a general stuper came over her, and she slept her life away, peacefully and gently. The last end was like the going to rest of a child upon its mother's bosom. When asked how she felt, she said she placed herself in the hands of the Lord, and that all was well.
When a girl of fifteen, she united with the church and had continued a faithful member the remainder of her life. Greatly appreciating her old home and friends, she kept her membership in the church at Mitchelville where she hoped to be borne and and laid to rest beside loved ones gone before. Her life was as gentle and significant as was her death. Her multitude of acquaintances, relatives and friends will call her blessed. The children and grandchildren will revere her memory, a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches; her name was like ointment poured forth, and at its mention, the noble life she lived is recalled, which will prove a benediction for a generation yet to come.
To those related to her by the ties of nature, is left a rich heritage in her life. May it prove as a load-stone, drawing all of them to the nobler and higher life, until upon the plains of an eternal existence, they join her to spend a glorious eternity, basking in the sunlight of perpetual day. Death is but transition, and introduces the soul into its prepared final abode. Death has lost its sting, and the grave its victory, and has been swallowed up of life. Her funeral took place at the First M. E. church in Bethany, conducted by Rev Dr Carothers, attended by a large concourse of sympathizing friends, after which her body was taken to the country church at Mitchelville, where a short service was held, and the old neighbors and friends were permitted to take a last look at her familiar face, following which her body was laid to rest in the old home cemetery (Burris Graveyard) to await the Resurrection Morn. Great sympathy is expressed for the bereaved ones. May they be comforted by the ever present and adorable Christ.
The pall bearers selected for the occasion were James Kinkade, B. P. Sigier, John L. Cole, E. H. Frisby, L. P. Riley, and S. P. Davisson. These persons met the train on Wednesday and conveyed the body to her late residence, where it lay in state until 10 o'clock, Thursday, and was viewed by her multitude of friends, from thence it was taken by them to the church. Following the services, quite a number proceeded with the cortege to the country church, where a large congregation was present, to pay their last tribute of respect to the memory of the dear old mother. Special music was rendered by a quartette, consisting of Mrs. Anna Spencer, organist; Mrs. Ed Skinner, Miss Lillian Neville, A. S. Cumming and E. W. Prentiss. The flora display was exceptionally fine. The richest of flowers literally covered the casket. Flowers bespeak a glorious immortality, as well as to manifest sincere devotion. They fade, but character as pure as are blossoms, live forever.
The Death of Franklin P. Burris
Franklin P. Burris was buried last Friday afternoon. The funeral was very largely attended by friends from all over Harrison County, as Mr Burris was one of the most prominent farmers in the county.
He was born October 27, 1852, in Jackson County, Ohio. When five years of age he moved with his parents to Harrison County, Missouri, and settled on the farm upon which he resided until his death, December 27, 1911.
He was married to Emma C. Barlow, October 4, 1877. To this union were born George R., James Harvey, W. Clay, Frank Edwin, K. Clifford, Ruth, Joseph, Mary, Grace, Jhett, and Bruce, who survive him. Don died in infancy. He is also survived by his wife, Emma C. Burris, and his five sisters, Mrs. Weltha Mitchem of Tarkio, MO; Mrs. Nealy Howell, Davis City, Iowa; Mrs. Lydia Hughes, Oklahoma City, Okla; Mrs. Cora B. Weller, Katy, Texas; Mrs. Sue Rucker, Norman, Oklahoma.
Mr. Burris was a great man, viewed from every angle. His devotion to his family was beautiful. He lived for his home. His wife and children fairly worshipped him. He ruled his household well, not with a rod, for he never struck one of his children, but with that supreme power of love. Today, in the language of the scripture, his children rise up and call him blessed. They sincerely looked upon him as the truest and best man that God ever made. His life as a citizen was remarkable. In all his dealings he squared his actions by the Golden Rule. His word was as good as his bond. His name became a synonym for honor and honesty. No man stood higher in the estimation of his fellow citizens than did Frank P. Burris. He, with the uprightness of his life, was the embodiment of kindness. He trusted everyone, believed in everyone, because he expected others to do the square thing as he did. He was so open hearted that everyone with whom he came in contact admired him. He made friends everywhere, and it was the pride of his heart to win the good will of everyone. He made no enemies for himself, neither did he want anyone else to have an enemy. When he found there was a difference between two of his friends, he went out of his way to get them to understand each other and be friends. He was called "The Peacemaker". He informed one of his friends, a lawyer, that if he could have his way, there would never be any business for the legal fraternity.
As it is written, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." Mr. Burris was naturally a good citizen, but he was a Christian. While he never formally united with the church, never-the-less he was practically one of the most loyal members of the church at Mitchelville. He was always in this "little corner" as he termed it. Regular in attendance at the Sabbath school and church services, he was the main stay of the church, upholding it with his means and moral support. However, with all this, he stated to Brother Dotson, a neighbor, who is a clergyman, "I do not trust my salvation upon what good I have attempted to do, but in faith in Jesus Christ as my Savior. I am sorry to leave my dear wife and children, but am prepared to go to meet my Redeemer." With the poet he could sing:
Brother Burris was conscious until the last. He looked the future squarely in the face; made every material provision for the end with as much care and case as he did all matters of business. And then he left the priceless inheritance to each one of the family, his dying words, exhorting them not in material things, but spiritual matters. His great desire was that his stalwart sons and daughters should live the life of honor, of righteousness and purity. To one of his sons he presented his diamond ring, and as he placed it on his hand, said, "That is a clean hand, without the evidence of evil habit. I place this ring on your hand and ask that you receive this as a token of uprightness. Keep your hands and your life clean."
After the funeral sermon, Pastor Dotson of the Baptist church, made a very timely address, which was followed by Mr. Baldwin and Judge Ezra H. Frisby, who told of his honorable life; after which the I.O.O.F. lodge took charge of the services, consigning his body to the ground by their beautiful ceremony.
DEATH: Death of Asaph M. Butler
Asaph M. Butler departed this life at his home in Cypress Township, Harrison County, May 9th, 1892, at 4 o'clock a.m., aged 81 years, 9 months and 12 days. He was born in the state of Vermont August 12th, 1810. While quite young he emigrated with his parents to Knox County, Ohio, where they remained until the year 1820 when they again moved to Illinois and settled on a farm near where the present city of Danville is now located. Here he remained with his parents until he arrived at his majority. The writer of this sketch has often heard him say that he helped to break the sod where the city of Danville now stands. About the year 1832 he married a very estimable lady, whose maiden name has escaped the writer's memory, with whom he lived happily until her death which occurred some 12 or 14 years ago. Six sons and three daughters were born to this union, all of whom survive him except three sons. The first son died quite young many years ago. Orlin has been dead 12 years and the late lamented Oscar died in Bethany several years ago. Mr Butler moved with his family from Danville, Ill and in the year 1840 settled on the farm where he ever since lived to the time of his death.
In 1845 when this county was first organized he was selected by the citizens of the county as a proper person for Judge of the county court and upon their recommendation the Governor appointed and commissioned him as one of the Judges of the first county court ever convened in this county. In March, 1845, he with his associates, Lewis Charlton and Samuel Edmiston, under a tree west of Big Creek near what is known as the Copeland Ford, held the first court session in Harrison County. After serving his people faithfully for the period for which he was appointed, he declined to allow his name to be used again as a candidate.
Mr Butler was indeed a pioneer in this county. His house was the first in the county furnished with glass windows, shingled roof and plank doors. Politically, he was an old time Whig as long as that party had an existence. He was among the first to assist in forming the Republican party and remained a staunch supporter of its principles up to the time of his death.
Mr Butler was a man of unlimited benevolence, always ready to extend a hand of welcome to all. He was strictly honest and honorable in all his transactions with his fellow men, and it was proverbial that to the rich and poor, high or low, bond or free, his latch string always hung out, and he greeted all who entered his door with such a hearty welcome that none ever left his house without feeling that it was good to have been there.
For the last five or six years he suffered and for the last two years suffered greatly from that relentless affliction, Bright's disease of the kidneys. Yet he bore his sufferings without a murmur, anxiously waiting for the day when all would be ended, until as before stated, at the advanced age of four score and nearly two years, he expired May 9th, 1892. Thus passed away the last member of the first court of Harrison County. His remains were laid to rest May 10th, 1892, on the farm where he so long lived, followed by his surviving sons and daughters and sorrowing friends.
Notwithstanding his death was expected at any time for several months, yet the intelligence thereof brings with it a sadness that the pen is wholly unable to portray. He is gone. His familiar face we will see no more. Nothing now remains of him only the sad memorial of man's mortality. That warm heart that always throbbed for others' woes will soon molder away and join its kindred dust. But his friends can proudly point to his amiable traits of character and the irreproachable example that he has left to those who mourn his loss and say 'Follow his precept and example'. He was strictly temperate in all things, always an ardent advocate for good morals, honest and upright in all his dealings, a man of firmness, always striving to do all the good he could. He was in every respect a truly exemplary man.
- A Friend
- Asaph Butler married Elizabeth Acree in Vermilion County, Illinois on Apr 22, 1832.
- Elizabeth Acree was born in Kentucky in 1811 and died in Harrison County on Feb 4, 1880. She is buried at the Butler Cemetery.
Angeline Brower, daughter of James B. And Elizabeth Brower, was born July 16, 1852 and died at her home in Blythedale, August 26, 1918, being at the time of her death 66 years, 1 month and 10days.
She was united in marriage to Christopher Canaday, July 23, 1870. To this union were born four children, J. T. Canaday of Rialto, Calif; H. P. Canaday of Blythedale, Mo; Mrs. Chas. Baldwin of Neosha, Mo., and Mrs. P. J. Richardson of Eagleville, Mo. All except J. T. Canaday were with her at the time of her death. He failed to reach here until the day after.
She had been a patient sufferer almost her life time and all her loving companion could do was done. Several trips were taken in hopes of benefiting her health, but to no avail. Her first thoughts were of home and children and she was never so happy as when doing something to promote their welfare.
In the year 1902 she with her husband united with the Christian Church, Blythedale, and remained a member of that church until her death.
Those left to mourn are husband, children, three brothers, Rev. M. F. Brower of Maysville, Mo; J. L. Brower and J. S. Brower of Hobart, Okla.; two sisters, Mrs. Wm. Thompson of Lamoni, Ia.; Mrs. H. J. Cobertly of Oklahoma City, Okla.; seventeen grandchildren and one great grandchild. All the relatives were present at the funeral except two brothers, one sister and two grandchildren, they being kept away by sickness. One grandson, R. V. Canaday of Rialto, Calif., and grand-daughter, Winifred Baldwin, of Neosha, Mo., were with her the last six weeks of her life and whose presence she enjoyed so much.
Home in Blythdale, Thursday and the precious body taken to St. Joseph, and laid to rest in a vault there until one can be built at the home cemetery. Those accompanying the body were the husband, H. P. Canaday and wife, Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Richardson, J. T. Canaday and son Ray, Mrs. Chas. Baldwin and children, Rev. M. F. Brower and Mrs. A. E. (no surname given).
Mr. Canaday had been a patient at the hospital since January for care. Sunday of last week he had his first automobile drive within a long time, into the Eagleville and Blythedale country. Wednesday evening he was found asleep in his chair at the hospital, and never awakened.
One of the most widely known men of the county and one as generous rest of sentence unreadable. Mr. Canaday had lived more than half of his life in and near Blythedale and son of Mr. and Mrs. William Canaday, he was born October 26, 1847 near Heyworth, Ill. and came to Harrison county with his parents when seven years of age. There were seven children in the family, of whom J.W. Canaday of Powell, Wyo., and Mrs. H.M. Hungate, Columbia, survive.
His formal education was received in the Canaday rural school and a business college at Leon, Ia., but his self-education was far more important and was builded upon a mind of brilliance; and his powers of analysis and his retention of detail amazed even his closest friends in the closing days of his life.
In his early manhood he followed farming for several years, and then engaged in the mercantile business at Eagleville, the late Harve Wren being his partner. A few years later he returned to his farm northeast of Eagleville, and lived there until engaging in the mercantile business at Blythedale, beginning in 1897. His sons John and Harve were his partners there. Several years later he became engaged in banking, being president and director of Blythedale banks for many years. He also followed stock raising.
He was married July 3, 1870, to Angeline Brower, who died Aug. 26, 1918. Since then he had resided with his children, spending time with each one. He was in every way active until five years ago, when a stroke prevented his traveling alone. He had been in the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Baldwin, Siloam Springs, Ark., for three and one-half years before coming here to a hospital.
Mr. Canaday's influence will extend into the indefinite future. Three acres of the original Cedar Hill cemetery at Blythedale always will receive upkeep, under terms of his will. Earnings from an 80 acres of land will provide for this and part of the 80-acres tract will be preserved as a wildlife refuge and recreation spot of which his hope was that the county finally could take charge. It is to become the site of a lake, under his plans. In the far future any excess earning from the land may be used for public or educational good.
He had made arrangements for his funeral services, which were Sunday afternoon at the Blythedale Christian church, the Rev. Dr. C. Breidenthal of Bethany officiating. Pallbearers were George R. Miller, Claude Fitzgerald, Fred Harrold, Claude Wyant, Otto Wilson, and Truman White; honorary pallbearers were John Leeper, B.B. Sharp, Harry Brenizer and E.E. Lake. There was a vocal solo by Mrs. Gertrude Edwards of Eagleville, a duet by Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Hass of Bethany, and a quartet by C. B. Neville and J.O. Reed of Blythedale. Colie Harrison of Cainsville, and L.E. Casady of Bethany. Mrs. Stella Neff and Mrs. Goldie Miller were accompanists. Flower bearers were Mrs. Dolph Little, Mrs. V.C. McCoy, Mrs. J.P. Ragan and Mrs. George R. Miller.
Burial was at the family vault at Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Harve Preston, son of Christopher and Angeline Brower Canaday, was born on a farm near Eagleville, Mo., August 15, 1872. He was one of four children. A brother, John, passed away at Los Angeles, Calif., July 10, 1928. Two sisters, Mrs. Mable Baldwin of Siloam Springs, Ark., and Mrs. Myrtle Richardson of Eagleville, Mo., with the father survive.
Harve grew to manhood on his father's farm, attending school at the Canaday district. Completing the grade work here, he entered the Stanberry Normal for three terms, then to Shenandoan, Iowa, to Northwestern college, for one term. He afterward attended two years at Humeston, Iowa, where he completed the scientific course which enable him to become one of Harrison County's most efficient school teachers. While attending college at Humeston he met Miss Nellie T. Carlton of Westerville, Iowa, also a student at that place, and on September 15, 1895, they were united in marriage. To this union were born six children – Pauline, Marguerite, John, George, Togo and Marvin. The young wife and mother passed away March 16, 1915.
The children, Pauline (Mrs. Clint Culbertson) Saratoga, Ark; Marguerite (Mrs. Lacey Barnett) Independence, Mo.; John, Garnet, Kan; George, Emporia, Kan; Togo, Independence, Mo.; and Marvin of the Marines, with 12 grandchildren, and two step-sons, Garland Harper, Eagleville, and Garner Harper, Kansas City, Mo., survive. For several years he was associated with his father and brothers in the mercantile business at Blythedale, after which he engaged in farming. With the exception of the time spent in college and one year in service for his country during the Spanish-American War, his entire life until the year 1920 was spent in North Harrison County.
On January 14, 1918, he was united in marriage to Daisy B. Harper of Blythedale and in the year 1920 they moved to a farm near Kincaid, Kan., where they resided six years. From there they moved to Bayard, Kan., residing there three years, when they located at Pleasanton, Kan., where his death occurred February 16, 1933, at the age of 60 years, six months and one day.
While in Pleasanton he was employed as distributor for the Kansas City Star and Times; where by his kind, friendly manner he gained the love and esteem of all with whom he came in contact, and great sorrow was expressed by his going. Many friends, neighbors and business associates visited the home frequently during his illness and assisted in every way possible in caring for him. He had not enjoyed good health for several months, but no alarm was felt in regard to his condition until a few weeks before his death, when on the advice of his local physician, he consulted a specialist who gave no hopes of a recovery. Harve realized his condition and while he expressed a desire to live, he was resigned and told his loved ones that all was well. He was confined to his room three weeks, during which time everything that devoted wife, children, and father, assisted by the faithful untiring physician, Dr. J. R. Shumway, and nurse, Miss Carico, could do was done to alleviate his suffering.
Those with him when the end came were the wife; three sons, George, Togo and wife, and John and wife; father, C. Canaday; and sister, Mrs. Myrtle Richardson. Other relatives with him during his last days were a sister, Mrs. Charles Baldwin and husband, Siloam Springs, Ark; niece, Mrs. Theo Almond, of Sulphur Springs, Ark; son-in-law, Lacey Barnett of Independence, Mo.; and step-son Garner Harper of Kansas City. Messages came to him from absent friends which he appreciated very much.
Funeral services were held from the M.E. church of Pleasanton, Friday morning, February 17, conducted by the Rev. E. Goss, a close friend and neighbor. After the services there, accompanied by the wife, children, father, sisters and niece, the body was brought back to the scenes of his childhood, where the body lay at the home of his sister at Eagleville, Mo., until Sunday, when another service was held at Blythedale Christian Church, conducted by N. N. Breckenridge with memorial address by Attorney C. C. Ross of Bethany. A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Haas and Mr. and Mrs. Ned Prentiss, with Mrs. Stella Hass Neff at the piano, all of Bethany, Mo., rendered several beautiful selections. Pallbearers were lifetime friends of the deceased – L. E. Casady, Harley Grenton, Frank Hefner, Roy Mullins, Charles Jones and Earle Spragg. These services were attended by a large crowd of old friends who had known and loved him since early childhood. Among them were his old pupils, Harlely Brenton of Bethany; Charles Kopp and Wm. NcNelly of Lamoni, Ia.; and Mrs. Harley Drew of Eagleville. Those from a distance were S. O. Carlton and son George of Osceola, Ia.; father and brother of his deceased wife, Mr. and Mrs. Less Barnett, Leon, Ia.; Mr. and Mrs. Harry Barnett, Lamoni, Ia.; Mrs Henry Hass, Mrs. George Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Lou Casady and son Ora of Bethany. After the services the flag draped casket was carried to the Cedar Hill Cemetery and he was laid to rest by the side of the wife of his youth, near the vault where his mother is entombed, and the graves of his grandparents, Wm. and Elizabeth Canaday. The wife left behind, who came into the home 15 years ago, working and striving to make life pleasant for himself and motherless children, has returned to the lonely home at Pleasanton to take up the work he left; and while it is so hard for her to pick up the broken threads and go on, she has the assistance of their many friends, who will help her to bear her loss, and we are sure her many Harrison County friends wish her success in her undertaking.
We extend our sincere thanks for the kind expression of sympathy extended us during our bereavement. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will ever be remembered.
A sister,
Myrtle Canaday Richardson
Wm. Canaday was born in Ohio on April 15, 1823 and died at his late residence in Ridgeway, February 28, 1919, aged 95 years 10 months and 15 days.
His grandfather, Walter Canaday, was a southern gentleman and a Quaker in religion. His father, John Canaday, was born in Alabama in 1801. The family moved to Ohio in a covered wagon (called schooner), drawn by oxen, and located in southern Illinois, the deceased being six years old at that time. The nearest post office was forty miles away and letter postage was 25 cents, and was paid by the receiver. His education consisted of one week in school six miles from home and he was so homesick that his mother never sent him back. He learned his letters from the old Bible and in after years read the book to learn his duty to God and his fellow man. He qualified himself and taught school one winter.
Wm. Canaday was married to Elizabeth Leeper of Illinois, on March 24, 1842. To this union seven children were born: John Canaday, of Eagleville, Mo.; Christopher Canaday, of Blythedale, Mo.; Phoebe A. Poynter, deceased; Joseph W. Canaday, Wyoming; Carrie B. Hungate, of Columbia, Mo.; Charles and Benjamin Canaday, who died in infancy. Elizabeth Canaday, their mother, died in Blythedale July 10, 1907, age 82 years.
Wm. Canaday came to Missouri in 1854 and entered fourteen forties of land in Colfax township, and has been a resident of Harrison County sixty-five years. He was a charter member of the Bank of Blythedale, became justice of the peace in 1856, which office he held till 1862, when he was elected county judge. He has been an active member of the G.A.R. and has helped to build many churches by his liberal donations. He organized the Taylor Grove Christian Church in 1859. He was a member of the church at Eagleville and later transferred his membership to the Blythedale Christian church. Mr. Canaday practically built the church of Blythedale from a financial consideration.
Wm. Canaday cast his first vote for James K. Polk in 1844, about the time the telegraph was invented. Abraham Lincoln was entertained at his father's home in Illinois, and Mrs. Lincoln and Wm. Canaday played together as children at the home of her father, Dr. Todd.
In 1861 he enlisted and was commissioned first lieutenant. He received his discharge, with the rank of quartermaster at the close of the war.
Wm. Canaday was married to Mrs. Jennie Reed on January 6, 1909, and has spent his declining years at their home in Ridgeway, where his faithful and devoted wife tenderly cared for him until the end came on Friday night, February 28th at 9:30 o'clock.
Wm. Canaday leaves the wife, three sons, one daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and a large number of old acquaintances who will miss him.
Thus passes one more of Harrison county's old citizens, highly honored and respected by all.
The funeral services were held on Tuesday afternoon at the Christian church in Blythedale, conducted by the writer of this article. The funeral was largely attended and the remains deposited in the beautiful Cedar Hill Cemetery.
A.C. Babcock
Mrs. Joab Chambers who has been in a critical condition with dropsy and other complications for some months died at the family home in the north part of Cainsville last Friday night.
Funeral services were conducted from the residence Saturday morning at 9 o'clock by Rev. J. H. Burrows after which interment was made in the Zoar cemetery. Besides the husband she leaves a daughter, Mrs. O. R. Bain; three sons, Howard, Fred, and David; other relatives and friends to mourn her death.
She was a member of Cainsvile Baptist Church and had lived a constant Christian life for many years.
Obituary next week.
At the age of 27 years he came west and located in Fox Creek township, Harrison county, Missouri. In his young manhood he was a teacher in the public schools, giving splendid satisfaction whenever employed. In those days the salary of school teachers was very small, not justifying a man who had ambition to forge ahead in the affairs of the world, to continue in the profession. So Mr Clark concluded he could do better at farming. Accordingly he purchased a farm in Bethany township, this county, where he toiled industriously through the years, to provide all things necessary and needful to his wife and children.
Sunday, March 1, 1868, Mr Clark was united in marriage to Miss Sarah E. Smith. This union was blessed with eleven children. Two of these, Matilda and Rosana, the latter, wife of William Miner, preceed their father into the great beyond. The children who survive him are Mazeppa, wife of John Needles, Nash, Okla.; George, Bethany, Mo.; Joseph, Albany, Mo; Nancy, wife of James Walker, Bethany, Mo; Edward, Grand Haven, Mich; Mattie B., Kansas City, Mo; Austin, Yuma, Colo.; Alvin, Frank, on the home farm, Bethany township.
In the year 1897 Mr Clark realized he was not living in accordance with the standard set forth in the holy scriptures. Deeply impressed with this conviction, it culminated in his conversion to the teachings of our blessed Lord, and he walked in the newness of life the rest of his days. He identified himself with the Mt Olivet charge of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, in Bethany township, remaining a faithful member of the church of his choice to the end of his earthly career.
Besides the children named, he is survived by his loving, devoted wife, a number of grand, great-grand and great-great-grandchildren. He will be missed not only by his immediate family, but by a host of neighbors and friends.
Mr Clark was a man of sterling honestly and upright character. He was a model farmer in order and neatness, of which his farm gives testimony. He was respected and esteemed by all that had the pleasure of his acquaintance. He lived among us for 82 years, 1 month and 13 days, then God took him.
Funeral services were at the church home by the writer December 16th, 1920, among a host of relatives, neighbors and friends. Interment was had in the cemetery adjoining.
So another good man has received his reward.
Rural Trenton Woman Dies
Mrs. Edith M. Corbin, 67, a resident of Route 4, Trenton, died at 1 a.m. today at the Bailey Clinic in Jamesport, where she had been a patient one day.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Resthaven Mortuary, north of Trenton. The Rev. Larry Kackley, pastor of the Rural Dale Baptist Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Resthaven Memorial Gardens, north of Trenton. There is no family visitation scheduled at the mortuary.
Mrs. Corbin was born near Gilman City, Mo. on June 7, 1914, a daughter of Albert Louis and Maggie Mae Smith Brown. She was married to Harold Corbin on Feb. 6, 1954 in Trenton. They lived on a farm southwest of Trenton all their married life.
Mrs. Corbin was a member of the Edinburg Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband, Harold, of the home; one son, Cecil Chambers of Trenton; her mother, Mrs. Maggie Weber of Lamoni, Iowa; one brother, Vermal Brown, and one sister, Verma Dean McCullough, both of Trenton; two half brothers, Charles Smith of Springdale, Ark., and Junior Smith of Apple Valley, Calif., and two grandchildren. Mrs. Corbin was preceded in death by her father and one grandson, Gary Wayne Chambers.
Feb 28, 1832, she was married to Andrew Stafford and to this union 7 children were born, 2 of whom are still living - Rose and Ellen. She and her faithful husband united with the Christian church in 1838 and she has since lived a consistent Christian life.
Her husband died May 6, 1845, and she remained a widow for 12 years. In 1857, she was married to Wm. Cox, and to this union, a son, Lafayette, was born. On Aug 20, 1868, Mr. Cox died, and she remained a widow the rest of her life, and died Feb. 5, 1904.
"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord."
She was a kind hearted christian mother, benevolent to the poor, and true to the church of her choice. The funeral service was conducted by the writer from the text found in 2 Cor, 5:1.10.
"Dearest mother thou hast left us, and this loss we deeply feel.
But, 'tis God who hath bereft us, But God can all our sorrows heal.
Mother, thou has gone before us, and our hearts are sad and sore,
Thou hast joined the happy chorus, of the blest upon that shore.
Dearest mother, how we miss thee, as we note the vacant chair,
But we know we soon shall greet thee, with Jesus in that home so fair."
J. M. Booth
"I can remember well the hard times my parents had in Indiana. They made all of our clothes. I have pulled flax many a day and my mother had to spin the thread on a wheel and weave the cloth by hand. People lived in log houses with puncheon floors. No sawed lumber but split logs to make boards for doors. Used wooden pins to fasten boards together. Fire started by striking flint rocks.
When we landed in Princeton back in 1859, there were a few stores, the old court house and a jail. When we arrived in Mainsville it was a rough place."
Married 4 Jan 1862 Miss Sarah E. Brunton, ten children, WA, AL Craig, Minnie Carrington, Laura Barrett of May, Okla, Nora Holmes of Laclede MO, Lucy Craig, deceased. 2 children died in infancy. Wife died 7 years ago. Buried Fairview Cemetery, Cainsville.
"Uncle" Roderick Craig, widely known in Harrison and Mercer counties, moved here in 1854 and has resided here ever since. He made many acquaintances and kept himself fairly well posted in the ways of the world. He was fond of conversation with well informed people and loved to read. He often inquired of us, as we passed his late residence, what the latest news was.
For many years it has cost him a struggle to live. Indeed he has lived on the border land of the valley of death for years. A great sufferer and a great care to his family and loved ones, but the weary march has ended, the last battle fought, the great enemy of our race has triumphed. Death came to his relief, Tuesday, April 17 1906 at 1:40 p.m. Came not with torture and pain but like the gentle zephyrs of spring, or a tired child falling asleep. He often marveled that his enfeebled life was prolonged when he could render so little assistance to his family.
He was born in Henry Co., Ind., June 8 1822. He was married to Miss Melvina Cook, April 12, 1849. Fifty-seven years of married life, eleven children born to them, 3 of which died in infancy. He served 3 years in Regt. M.S. M. Co. 2 and was always proud of the service he rendered his country in its hour of need. He took great pleasure in Decoration services and largely led in the services held at the Cain cemetery where his daughter, Bellzena, lays at rest.
The funeral services were conducted by the writer at the late home, Wednesday, Arpil 18, 1906, at 3p.m. The text was from I. Thes. 4 ch. 14 va. The lesson was from the 23rd Psalm. His remains were taken to the Zoar cemetery and laid to rest, there to wait the resurrection. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his aged companion who must now finish her pilgrimage alone after 57 years of heroic toil and sacrifice for those she loved.
May the lord sustain her and guide her and her children is my prayer for Jesus sake.
Bro. Hall gave an account of his enlistment 44 years ago, the first of this month and of his army life. He was a good soldier and a brave man. Only 6 of his company remains to answer the roll call. Deacon B.F. Burns is the oldest remaining.
Cross was a brick layer by trade and had made his home in Des Moines for several years past. A warrant was sworn out last week and requisition papers secured for his arrest. Unable to give bond he was ordered to jail, where the silent walls added nothing to his favor, and in a moment of despair and remorse, blinded all things of the past as far as he was concerned, by taking his life.
A coroner's inquest was held Tuesday morning at the court house which we publish in full. This report gives all the particulars of the sad affair at the jail, and anything further we might say or do could not add a thing to the comfort of those who are grieved at this time.
At an inquest held before A. C. Bonser, coroner within and for the county of Harrison and state of Missouri, at Bethany, Feb 6, 1912, at the court house, over the dead body of Frank Cross, who was supposed to have come to his death by violence, the following testimony of witnesses was taken before said coroner and the jury, and was then and there reduced to writing and subscribed to by the witnesses.
William L. Tilley testified as follows:
I am city marshal, also deputy sheriff of Harrison County. I went down to the jail. Frank Cross' wife had come to talk with him. Bert Cross and Anthony Cross were there. They went into the parlor of the jail building. I told them I would go and get Frank Cross and bring him in. I got the key and opened the doors of the jail and I looked in and saw Frank Cross hanging in the cage door by the neck. I looked at him for some time to see if he was alive, but he did not move. I pulled the doors to and sent for the sheriff, J. B. Manifold. I observed that he was hung with two towels tied together and tied to the bars at the top of the door and around his neck. There were no other persons in the jail with him.
Dr. E. H. Bryson testified as follows:
I am a practicing physician and surgeon of Bethany. I was called by Prosecuting Attorney Lawhead and told that Frank Cross had hung himself in the jail and to come at once. I went to the jail with Coroner Bonser and was let in by W. L. Tilley and found the body of Frank Cross hanging from the cross bars of the door of the cage. He apparently had stood on a chair and tied the towel around his neck and one around the cross bar and the two tied together, and had either pushed the chair away or stepped off, his feet was hanging by the chair. I felt his pulse to see whether he was alive and then cut down the body. On examination I found he was dead and had been 15 to 30 minutes. I did not observe any marks of violence and everything tended to show he had taken his own life. It was in the morning of the 6th day of February, between 9 and 10 o'clock.
Moses Manifold testified as follows:
I am the father of the sheriff and live at the jail. Frank Cross was a prisoner there for the past two days. There was no other person confined in the jail. I saw him between 7 and 8 o'clock. Took him his breakfast and he ate it and said he would need some wood soon.
J. B. Manifold testified as follows:
I am the sheriff of Harrison County. I had Frank Cross confined in jail as a prisoner since Sunday last. I last saw him alive this morning just after he ate his breakfast and let him out to get wood and water. I came up town and was around the court house a few minutes before I opened county court, 8:30 a.m. One of the Cross boys came up and said his mother was at the jail and wanted to see Frank Cross. I went to the street and some one said there was trouble at the jail. I then saw Tilley at the jail and he told me in effect that Frank Cross had hung himself. I then called the Prosecuting Attorney and went and informed the coroner and they went to the jail.
We, the undersigned jurors, impaneled and sworn on the 6th day of February, 1912, at the township of Bethany, in the county of Harrison by A. C. Bonser, coroner, to diligently inquire and true presentment make, how and by whom Frank Cross, whose body was found in the county jail, came to his death; having viewed the body and heard the evidence, do find that the deceased came to his death by his own hand by hanging himself in the county jail.
Given under our hand this sixth day of February, 1912.
F. V. Coffman
Miles Estep
W. W. Taggart
J. E. Webb
W. M. Foster
Wm Reynolds
A. C. Bonser, Coroner
Frank Cross was born April 7, 1868, died February 6, 1912, aged 43 years, 9 months, 29 days. Funeral services will be held at the home of his mother, Mrs Ellen Cross, this Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev John Young of the Christian church. Burial at Miriam Cemetery.
(NOTES) Frank Cross is listed in the 1880 Census of Bethany Township, Harrison County, Missouri in the household of his parents, S. B. and Ellen Cross. He is listed as 12 years old, born in Illinois. Also listed are his sisters, Jennie (age 14) and Bertie (age 4).
His father, S. B. Cross, was born in New Jersey on Mar 27, 1830 and died in Harrison County on May 18, 1910. He is buried at Miriam Cemetery in Bethany.
His mother, Ellen Cross was born in New York on Oct 15, 1833 and died May 16, 1916. She is buried at Miriam Cemetery in Bethany.
Although all indications are that Frank Cross was buried at Miriam Cemetery in Bethany on Feb 9, 1912, there is no stone bearing his name.
The death of Calvin Crouse at the family home north of town on last Sunday morning Aug 8, 1909, while not unexpected since the critical surgical operation at St Joseph, yet it saddened our whole community. He has lived here more than 40 years and is widely and favorably known. He was born in North Caro., June 8, 1830, and was one of 9 brothers to enlist for the preservation of the Union, he and his brother, Eli, in Co. F 46th Ill. Vol. Inft. He participated in two battles - Fort Donelson and Shiloh - losing an eye in the latter engagement and the wound never healed.
He was married first to Miss Christiana Greenwood Oct 27, 1856, and to this union 11 children were born, all of whom are living and need no introduction to our people. His first wife died Oct 2, 1893. On May 21, 1895, he married to Mrs. Harriette Woodruff who survives him.
The deceased came to Mercer co., MO in 1868 and two years later moved to Harrison co., locating near this city where he has continued to reside. His was a strong personality, a man of positive habits, rarely changing his views; an obliging nabor, industrious, and of wonderful energy. He managed well and accumulated a fine fortune, but it did not change the man; he remained plain, positive and unassuming.
As a rule he looked upon the bright side of life, was full of good cheer, and one you were glad to meet. He carried his wound received in defense of his country with pleasurable pride. He was a strong partisan, but welcomed fair combat. He never made a profession of religion, but was ever ready to do kindly deeds for those in need. Four of his sons lived so far off that they could not attend the funeral.
Memorial services were conducted from the late home 1 1/2 miles northwest of town by the writer, assisted by Rev. W. H. Harper, from Ecl. 12-7--"Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was and the spirit unto God who gave it." The parting look taken, and then slowly we bore his remains to the beautiful Oakland Cemetery and laid them to rest beside his faithful companion gone before. The pallbearers were mostly members of the G.A.R. of whom he was always proud.
For several years he lived in Cainsville but he loved the farm and enjoyed farming. He had a 400-acre farm of rich valley land very productive except in such wet seasons as this. He had a large and comfortable home together with barns, out-buildings, etc., and fixed to live easily. He made a brave fight for his life, but death conquered.
May the peace of God attend his loved ones, is my prayer.
J. H. Burrows
Bethany Mourns The Loss of Another Good Citizen
Again, Bethany is called upon to mourn for one of our best citizens, in the death of Judge J. R. Cunningham who departed this life at his home last Saturday morning, February 6, 1904, at 4:50 o'clock, aged 69 years, 10 months and 26 days. The Judge had been seriously ill for several weeks, but up until the day before his death, he was thought to be improving and the news of his death came as a shock to most of our people.
Judge Cunningham had a very extensive acquaintance in Harrison County, and was universally recognized as an honest, conscientious, Christian gentleman. He had always been an earnest, uncompromising Republican and was honored by his party in his election to several responsible offices. As a member of the C. P. church of this city, he will be greatly missed as he was very faithful, being teacher of the Bible Class in Sunday School and at the time of his death was a Building Elder. His pastor, Rev W. J. Willis, furnishes us with the following biographical sketch of this truly good man:
James Ross Cunningham was born in McMinn County, Tennessee, March 11th, 1834 and was a son of Marshall and Sarah Cunningham, natives of Blount County, Tenn., and [unreadable] County Va., respectively. The father immigrated to Missouri in 1852 and located on a farm in Gentry County, where both parents died. They had six children: James Ross, Moses, Charles M., Robert A., and Richard S., all deceased and George W., now living in Ruth, Oklahoma.
J. R. Cunningham was reared to manhood on a farm and afterward he moved to Albany where he engaged in the mercantile business as a clerk for three years. He afterward served as deputy county and circuit clerk for one term of four years. He served as Provost Marshal at Albany during the war of 1862-64 and later engaged in the mercantile business there, in which he continued until 1872. From 1869 to 1871 he filled the office of postmaster with satisfaction.
In 1875 he came to Bethany where he served awhile as deputy county clerk, deputy sheriff and was employed for some time in the Treasurer's office. In 1880 he was elected Probate Judge, which position he held for two terms.
For a number of years he had been Justice of the Peace in this township. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
May 9th, 1857 he was married to Virginia A. McConkey, a native of Gentry County, Mo., by whom he had four children; Mary, wife of W. F. McConkey, now in Hawaiian Islands, and Arthur Ross, who is with his mother at home.
He joined the Cumberland Presbyterian church with his family in 1895 and was elected and ordained Ruling Elder in this church in the fall of 1902.
Funeral services were held from the C. P. church last Sunday afternoon, at 3 o'clock, the church being crowded with sorrowing friends to pay this last tribute of respect to one whom we all honor. The pastor, Rev. Willis, was assisted by Dr. Carothers, of the M. E. church. The body was borne to beautiful Miriam Cemetery, where with the Odd Fellows impressive ceremony, the remains of this kind husband, father and good citizen were laid to rest. The floral tributes were beautiful, among them being an emblem from the I.O.O.F., a bunch of calla lilies from the C. P. Aid Society, elegant tributes for S. S. of the C. P. church and Epworth League, of the M. E. church, with many others from numerous friends.
The Republican sorrows with the bereaved wife, three daughters and son, and extends to them our deepest sympathy.
God hath not promised skies always blue,
flower strewn pathways all our lives through;
But God hath promised strength for the day,
rest for thy labor, light for the way;
Grace for the trials;
Help from above,
Unfailing sympathy
Undying love.
Funeral services held at 2:00 o'clock Sunday afternoon at the Methodist church with the Rev. Chester Smart officiating. Mrs. Ireta Davis, Mrs. Aldean Ditty, Mrs. Ida Colson, Mrs. Nita Moore sang, "Precious Lord, Take my Hand", "I Won't Have To Cross Jordan Alone", and "Sunrise", accompanied by Mrs. Fern Graham at the piano. Pallbearers were grandsons, Roy J. Dobson, Garland D. Bain, Larry Bain, John T. Dobson, Carl D. Smith and Dickie Smith. Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery under the direction of the Lewis and Son Funeral Home.
On the 21st inst., in Hamilton township, this county, Francis M. Daily, aged 30 years.
As will be seen by the above, another one of our most respected citizens has gone and left us. From parties who were acquainted with the deceased, we learn that he was born in Washington County, Indiana, April 21, 1846. In the year 1856 he moved to this county, and in 1862 he enlisted in the 35th Regiment of Missouri Volunteers. As a soldier he had but few equals, and as a citizen, he was loved and respected by all who knew him. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn the loss of a faithful husband and loving father.
NOTE: Francis Marion Daily was the son of William & Sarah (Sturdevant) Daily and died on his 30th birthday, April 21st, 1871. He married Dina Holloway on April 18, 1867. Some records spell the family surname as "Dailey". Francis Daily is buried at Brown Cemetery in Hamilton Township, Harrison County. An infant brother is also buried there. William and Sarah Daily are buried at White Oak Cemetery (Harrison County, MO).
May 15, 1901, Mr. Daily married Miss Francis B. Smith. Five children came to brighten their home. Delores now Mrs. Claude Dobson of Kansas City, Dorothy A. at home, Mrs. Ira Bain, Schell City, Garland and Raymond of Kansas City. In 1909 Mr. Daily with his family moved to Texas and in 1910 they moved to Schell City, Mo. Mr. Daily has had poor health for some two years. After months of waiting in the vestibule of suffering God opened the door and on March 12, 1926 Bro Daily passed through entering the Church, Triumphant at the Haven of Rest.
During the last few weeks of his life he gave those who were with him strong evidence of his acceptance with God and of living grace.
Besides his wife and family he leaves two brothers, D. L. Daily, New Hampton, Mo., C. M. Daily of Webster County, Mo., two sisters, Mrs. R. J. Maize, St. John, Kansas, and Mrs. Jane Johnson, New Hampton, Mo., also eight grandchildren and many friends.
A short funeral service was conducted at the home by S. B. Weatherman, Saturday at 3:30 P.M. The body was taken to Bethany, Mo. for burial.
Buried at Mt. Zion Cemetery, near Bethany, MO
NOTE: Death Certificate states birth date as October 22, 1856. Age at death was 69 years 4 months 20 days. Birthplace as Eagleville, MO. Father was William Daily, born IN. Mother was Sarah Sturdevant, born IN. Death occured at 11:50 AM March 12, 1926.
Elvira Ann Renfro was born in Madison County, Illinois, Sept 15, 1944, and died in Okmulgee, Okla., Dec 23, 1917, aged 73 years, 3 months and 7 days.
On May 6, 1866, she was united in marriage to William Dale. To this union were born ten children, seven of whom, with the aged husband and father, are left to mourn the loss of a devoted wife and mother.
About forty years ago she united with the Christian church and continued to live a consistent Christian life until the call came to "come up higher".
Funeral services were held at the family home in east Ridgeway on Wednesday, Dec 26, conducted by Rev Daniel, pastor of the Christian church. Following this service, the remains were taken to the Yankee Ridge cemetery and tenderly laid to rest.
[NOTE: Elvira Renfro was the daughter of Silas and Sarah (Vanhoozer) Renfro. She and William Dale were married in Harrison County, Missouri on May 6, 1866.]
.
The subject of this sketch, James J. Dale, was born in Barren county, Kentucky, September 17, 1831, where he grew to manhood. He was married to Elizabeth Shirley May 7, 1861, who departed this life May 30, 1897. To this union three children were born, two boys and one girl, who still survive him and were present during his sickness and death. Bro. Dale united with the Christian church in 1855 and it was in this faith he tried to live a consistent Christian life, and was always found at his post of duty in the Sunday school and church services as long as he was able to attend, and his place in the church will be greatly missed, both from a spiritual and financial view, as he had acquired considerable wealth and he believed that the cause of his Master should have a part of the income, and he was growing more liberal with his means every year.
He served his country during the war of the rebellion three and one-half years, serving three months in the 10th Kentucky cavalry, then in the 26th Kentucky Infantry to the close of the war, and it was in the interest of his country that he was so deeply concerned even to the close of his life, which occurred May 9, 1908, near Eagleville, Mo., where he had lived for a number of years and where his funeral services were conducted by the writer in the Christian church on May 10th, in the presence of a crowded audience of sympathizing friends, after which interment took place in the cemetery nearby. The large procession was evidence of the many friends he had acquired during life, and the rites of true devotion were nobly exercised by the Grand Army of the Republic, of which order he was a member. May his children console themselves by imitating his noble virtues and Christian graces.
- W. H. Hobbs
"Bud" as he was known by his friends, came to Missouri with his parents in 1870 from near Galesburg, Ill.; he lived with his parents on a farm near Martinsville, where he grew to manhood.
He was of a retiring disposition- generous, thoughtful and a very conservative business man. During the last few years of his life, he was an active member of the official board of the Bank of Martinsville, and always kept in mind the interests of the institution and of his fellowmen. He was a devoted father, loving husband and a true friend.
On October 16, 1911, he was united in marriage to Ida L. Snipes; to this union were born three sons and one daughter, the daughter passing away March 25, 1917. Then on March 8, 1919, his wife, Ida Eckard, passed away.
He united with the Mount Olive church April 26, 1917 during the revival held by W. W. Kitchen. He lived a faithful Christian life until the end came.
On October 1, 1925, he was united in marriage to Christine Blomfield.
He was sick only a short time and all that loving hands could do was done to relieve his suffering. During the last week of his illness he was tenderly cared for by his niece, Elma Steed, a trained nurse from Leavenworth, Kansas.
The funeral services were conducted at the Methodist church at Martinsville, Mo., Sunday, August 15, at 3:00 o'clock p.m. by H. G. Blomfield, in the presence of a large number of friends and neighbors. The floral offerings were many and beautiful and represented the high esteem in which he was held by his friends and neighbors. After the services he was tenderly laid to rest in the Kidwell Cemetery.
Mrs William Eckard died at her home about five miles north of here Thursday night. She had been in ill health for some time. The funeral was held Saturday morning at 10:00 at the home. Burial at Kidwell cemetery.
She united with the Christian church about forty years ago, and lived and died in the triumph of a Christian faith.
Funeral services were held by the writer after which the remains were laid to rest in the Magee cemetery near Martinsville, to wait the resurrection.
- L. R. Williams
She lived in Harrison county 65 years and on the home provided by her husband about 36 years. The last twelve years, since the death of her husband, she has spent most of her time visiting with her children, although maintaining her own home.
She was a real mother of the kind that look after the home and children. Her personal contact among all who knew her speaks of the goodness of her life, and in speaking of her parting to meet her Master she felt she was ready and anxious to take the step to the life eternal.
The funeral sermon was preached in the Springer church February 14 by Rev H. E. Moore. Burial was in the cemetery adjoining.
Death comes an unsought guest to every home and at his bidding some loved one goes forth to his mysterious home, from whence none have ever returned. Time may teach us resignation but there is always a vacancy that never can be filled, and more especially when "Mother" is called, for her place, once empty, must forever remain so. She is the one who is associated with us in our infancy, youth and maturing age and when with all her love, her influence and care she ceases her beautious life, it leaves us desolate indeed, but when that mother has become infirm, her health impaired and having lived past the allotted time, it is a consolation to know and feel that she has finished her work on earth and reaping the reward of a well spent life, free from all pain and sorrow. Thus was the passing of "Aunt Josie" Fetty, who for many years had awaited the summons to come up higher. Her death occurred at the home of her son, Joseph, of near Beaconsfield, March 24, where she had resided the greater part of the last years of her life, and where she enjoyed the companionship of her little grandchildren, and where she was given every attention by the son and wife. Hers was a busy life, and full of hardships, but she faced her trials bravely and when we recall her as we knew her, these words come to our mind:
Josephine grew to womanhood in the Mt Pleasant neighborhood and when she was 25 years of age was united in marriage to William Fetty. To this union were born nine children - John, Hattie, George, Jacob, Frank, Ben, Sarah, Joseph and Newton. Three children, Hattie, Sarah and Newton are deceased, while the surviving sons are of the following places; John of Guthrie, Okla., Jacob of Boyles, Kan., George of Atchison, Kan., Ben of Lauratown, Ark., Frank of Clarinda, Ia., and Joseph of Beaconsfield, Ia. She is survived by 28 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, a number of other relatives and a host of friends.
Funeral services were conducted at the Mt Pleasant Baptist church of which she had been a faithful member since she was 15 years old, by the Rev T. Northup of Eagleville. Songs she had requested were sung: "Nearer My Home Today", "Tell Mother I'll Be There" and "God Will Take Care of You" by a mixed choir. Those from a distance attending ther services were George Fetty and daughter Erma and Mr and Mrs D. P. Sullivan of Atchison, Kan., Jacob Fetty of Boyles, Kan., Joseph Fetty and family of Kellerton, and neighbors and friends near his home. Burial was in the Mt Pleasant cemetery.
Written by a friend, Myrtle Richardson
The Rev Avery Wooderson of Trenton officiated. Two duets were sung by Mrs Ruth McClain and Miss Helen Bauer, and there was a solo by Mrs Lucille Barnhouse. Mrs Pearl Phillips accompanied. All are from Cainsville. Pallbearers were Ennis Fears, Chester Shepard, Bernard Fears, Leonard Fears, Floyd Smith and Okla Fitzpatrick.
Daughters and sons surviving Mrs Fitzpatrick are Mrs Opal Hudson of Sacramento, Calif., Alva Fitzpatrick of Gilman City, Mrs Edith King of Trenton, Mrs Lorraine Hutchinson of Ft Madison, Iowa, Mrs Mildred Weathers of Cainsville and George F. Fitzpatrick of Kansas City.
A kick in the abdomen by a mule, May 24, which burst the large intestine, finally brought death early Sunday morning at a local hospital to Frank E. Forbes, 78, whose home was 14 miles east of Bethany.
Showing an encouraging resistance, Mr Forbes withstood a first operation at St Joseph and appeared to be recovering. he was brought to his home, but was returned to St Joseph again about three weeks ago, and had submitted to two operations within that time. He was returned here Wednesday.
Surviving Mr Forbes are his wife, Emma, and a daughter, Mrs Bert Wooderson.
The Rev. H. G. Blomfield officiated at funeral services held yesterday at Sharon chapel, where burial also took place.
Hymns were sung by Mrs Grover Giles, Mrs Cole Rhea and Ed Norton. Pallbearers were T. F. Kelly, Garland Kelly, Charles Bolar, Boyce Bolar, Garland Bain and Daryl Wooderson.
[Note: Frank Forbes, son of James Harvey and Fannie (Graybill) Forbes was born Feb 16, 1862 in Elkhart, Indiana. The family is listed in the 1870 census of Sugar Creek Township, Harrison County, Missouri.]
Card of Thanks
We wish to express our sincere thanks to all those neighbors and friends who so kindly and tenderly gave us their sympathy and assistance during the sickness, death and burial of our beloved husband and father, also for the beautiful floral offerings.
Mrs. C. C. Fordyce and children
He was married in St Louis, March 26, 1864, to Rose Price, and they resided in that city for several years. To this union 9 children were born, 8 of whom are living. They moved to southern Iowa in the '70s where Mr Frisby was engaged in the mercantile business for several years in Davis City, Iowa, and since 1881 in Andover, Mo., where he lived the rest of his life. He is survived by his wife and eight children, William, Richard H., Walter Frisby, Mrs. Ida Brenizer, Mrs. Lou Humeston, Blanche, Frank and Wyona Frisby. Three sisters also survive him.
He was taken sick Tuesday, July 1, 1902 and was sick one week, dying July 8. He was patient all through his sickness and even when suffering untold agony he murmured not. He said the Lord had claimed him as His own and he was going home. He was conscious up to the last minute, and said, "No pain". He died a beautiful death, calm and peaceful.
He lived a good, moral life, was honest and full of integrity toward his fellow men and "Uncle Jack" was loved by all who knew him. His name and memory will live forever in the hearts of the people. He was associated with the late William Poland in the mercantile business at Andover for many years, and both men being popular, they soon built up a large business, which was continued after Mr Poland's retirement when Walter Frisby, son of the deceased, took his place. Deceased was a man of the most tender and generous impulses and no deserving person ever applied to "Uncle Jack" for assistance that he turned away.
The funeral services were held at the home by J. Willis at 3 o'clock, July 9, 1902, after which the remains were taken to the little village cemetery and laid away by loving hands. The funeral was very largely attended: in fact, it is said to have been the largest funeral ever held in Andover. This was a deserved tribute to a man who had been so generally and so highly respected.
NOTE: Amy Glenn was the daughter of Darius and Lucinda (Richards) Watson. She was born Apr 18, 1859 in Greene County, Missouri. She married James Greenberry Glenn on Feb 1, 1877 in Harrison County, Missouri.
She was one of a family of 11 children, seven girls and four boys. One brother died in infancy. The other children all lived to be aged men and women. Only two of the family survive. They are Mrs Charity Glenn of Lakin, Kan., and Mrs Amy Glenn of Martinsville.
She was united in marriage to John A. Glenn of Martinsville Nov 19, 1877. Three children were born to this union: Frank Glenn and Mrs Lucinda Smith, both of Martinsville, and a daughter, Julia, who died in 1896 at the age of 16 years.
She leaves to mourn her passing, her aged companion, two children, four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, two sisters and a host of other relatives and friends. She had but few if any enemies. She loved her family and home and her friends always found a welcome at her door. She was a woman of few words, and if she could not say something good of her fellowman, she said nothing.
Funeral services were conducted Sunday afternoon, March 17 at the church by the pastor, the Rev O.D. Hedges, and burial was in the Magee cemetery, east of Martinsville. Singers were Mrs Lucy VanHoozer, Mrs Charlie Walter, Mrs Leland Eisenbarger, Miss Elizabeth Henderson, Mrs Mary Saxon and Miss Eloise Hunt. Pallbearers were: Dean Glenn, F. J. McIntosh, Grant Lacy, Kyle Hook, Clifford Wood and Claud Fish.
This [sic] briefly stated are the closing events in the life of Eld. Wm. R. Goodell, whose mortal life came to a close in Cainsville, Mo., Tuesday, September 5th, 1905.
For several years his steps have been slow and tottery, (and like the path of all of us) winding towards the tomb. His life has truly been an eventful one; and to condense it ever so much, if given in detail, would require several columns so we must abridge it.
Born Sept. 1st, 1822 in Morgan county, Illinois; married in 1850; enlisted in 1861 in the army and was 1st Lieutenant of Company B, 30th Illinois Infantry; was a soldier in the Mexican War also. After the close of the War he came to Harrison county Missouri in 1864 and bought a farm east of Bethany 6 miles, sold this and purchased a half interest in a flour mill here in 1866. In 1868 traded same for a farm southeast of Eagleville; sold this and bought a farm south of Bancroft in Daviess county, Missouri. From there he went to western Kansas and then back to Cainsville some 12 years ago. The last decade of his life has been a quiet and retiring one. Naturally he was jovial and full of sociability.
In October, 1866, he and his good wife, who is left to finish life’s journey alone, united with the Baptist church; and 6 months later he was made a Deacon. In July 1867 he and the writer were regularly ordained to the work of the ministry. He held several pastorates in Harrison, Mercer and Daviess counties. He was among the unfortunates who exchanged good farms for territory in which to sell “The Footprints of Time".
Besides his aged companion he leaves four children to mourn his death. They are: Mrs. J. M. Moss, McCurtian [sic], Ind. Ter., Mrs. Andrew Shirley, Rossland, B. C., Mrs. John M. Rogers, Cainsville, Mo., and Mr. Jesse H. Goodell, Jamestown, Kans. Five of the children to this union have preceded him.
The funeral services were conducted by the writer at the Baptist church in Cainsville, Mo., Sept. 6, 1905, at 2 p.m. The lesson was from Romans viii, 18 to 36. The text was John xiii, last clause of 1st verse; "Having loved his own that were in the world he loved them unto the end". Christ’s undying love was the theme. Prayer by Rev. W. H. Harper. "How Firm a Foundation", "Jesus Lover of My Soul" and "Asleep in Jesus" were songs tenderly rendered. The parting look was then taken after which the remains were interred in the Zoar cemetery not far from the spot where he began his public ministry and where he was ordained 38 years ago.
The weather prevented a large attendance but deep sorrow was manifest, and the entire services, with old soldiers as pall bearers, were evidence of an appreciative community. Love and meekness becomes the minister better than ambition; striving to win souls and casting none away. It were well that all ministers would first preach to themselves and then to others. The greatest want of the times in which we live is a commanding ministry, one of piety, earnest,[sic] and of mightiest moral power; full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, who will proclaim old truths with new energy, not cumbered with drapery nor rubbish--preaching the truth as it is in Jesus.
May the Lord guide us all and comfort these bereft ones for Jesus’ sake is my prayer.
J. H. BURROWS
The family desire [sic] to express their thanks to one and all who lent their sympathy at a time when it was so deeply appreciated. May the Lord bless you all.
MRS. W. R. GOODELL.
MRS. JOHN M. ROGERS.
JESSE H. GOODELL
Margaret Elizabeth Rimmer, daughter of David and Mary Rimmer, was born March 16, 1855 near Richmond in Ray county, Missouri. She passed away Thursday, April 8 at her home in Martinsville at the advanced age of 82 years and 22 days.
Her parents moved to Harrison County when she was 13 years old.
She was united in marriage to John R. Grace on October 18, 1874. To this union 12 children were born; eight girls and four boys; namely, Mrs Clara Stone deceased, W. J. Grace, Martinsville, Mrs Nora Clemens, Martinsville, Mrs Ado Poe, Grant City, Mrs Jessie Spillman deceased, Mrs Cora Maddy deceased, David R. deceased, Mrs Mary Howard, Albany, Curtis A. deceased, Lennie L. deceased, Roy R. deceased and Minnie L. deceased.
Besides the four living children, 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren survive, also two brothers and one sister; namely, John Rimmer of Eureka, Kan., William Rimmer of Chicago, Ill., and Nancy VanHoozer of Lawton, Okla.
At an early age she united with the Christian church and lived a faithful Christian life.
Her husband preceded her in death in December, 1929. Their married life was spent on their farm northwest of Martinsville, where they reared their family, moving to Martinsville in 1910. Here they spent their declining years until the Master called them home.
Roy Rimmer Grace, youngest son of J. R. and Margaret E. Grace, was born in Harrison County, Missouri 4 1/2 miles northwest of Martinsville, February 16, 1897 and departed this life May 6, 1926, aged 29 years, 2 months and 20 days.
He was converted at New Harmony church when 13 years old, afterwards moving his membership to Martinsville Christian church, under Rev Kitchen's preaching, remained a member of that church until his death. About nine years ago, Roy began failing in health, his father and mother going with him to New Mexico where he remained until about 3 years ago, when he returned to his hime in Martinsville. He was one of a family of 12 children, seven of whom preceded him in death. They were, Mrs Clara Stone, Mrs Jessie Spillman, Mrs Cora Maddy, Curtis A., David R., Lena and Minnie. He is survived by his parents, 3 sisters and 1 brother, Mrs Nora Clemmons of Martinsville, Mrs Ada Poe of Grant City, Mrs Mary Howard of Lone Star and William Grace of Martinsville.
Roy was a patient sufferer through all his sickness, and had many relatives and friends who did everything in their power for him, but death angel visited the home again and took another, leaving the aged father and mother more lonely.
Funeral services were held at the Christian church by Rev Hadley, M. E. minister, Friday afternoon at 2:30 and burial was at the Kidwell Cemetery.
(NOTE): Roy Rimmer Grace died of tuberculosis, as did most of his siblings.
Cainsville, Mo.
Elaine Graham, 95, died Monday, Dec. 3 2012 at Harrison County Community Hospital in Bethany, Mo.
Funeral services were held Friday, Dec. 7 at First Baptist Church in Cainsville, Mo. under the direction of Bethany Memorial Chapel of Bethany. Burial was in Zoar Cemetery near Cainsville.
Mrs. Graham, daughter of Harley and Cora (Stanley) Maple, was born near Brimson in Harrison County, Mo., on Oct. 15, 1917. She grew up in the Akron community and graduated from Cainsville High School. She married Jack Graham on June 19, 1937. They actively participated in their church and community, and were engaged in farming until Mr. Graham’s death on Jan. 27, 1990. They enjoyed winters in Texas for 15 years, but her family was her greatest joy.
She accepted Christ at an early age and placed her membership in Cainsville First Baptist Church, and remained a faithful member until her death.
Survivors include her children, Phillip Graham (and wife Daniela) and JoAnn Johnson (and husband, Philip),; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren; a brother-in-law Kenneth Bondurant; and cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Stanley Maple; three sisters, Ilene Thomas, Kathleen Clegg, and Janna Bondurant, and a granddaughter, Sara Johnson.
Memorial gifts to Cainsville First Baptist Church or Zoar Cemetery may be left in care of the funeral home.
(Note: The other two were Nora Bowman and John Ruff. Please see alphabetically.)
Mrs G. W. Grant
Her death occured at her home in Ridgeway, last Wednesday night, February 23, after a long illness.
Deceased united with the Christian Church about thirty years ago, and was a faithful member of the same. She was greatly loved by all, and her death is regretted by hosts of friends who sympathize with the bereaved ones.
Funeral services were held at the Christian Church last Friday afternoon, conducted by Mr. Oren Orahood of Bethany. A large number were present, showing the high esteem in which deceased was held. The remains were laid to rest by loving hands in Yankee Ridge Cemetery.
JOSEPH GRAY
Bethany, Mo.--Joseph GRAY, living in Trail Creek township, this county, died at his residence on April 20, 1890. He was born in Morgantown, Va., on
January 15, 1785, making him 105 years of age. He voted for Thomas Jefferson in 1804.
He was born in Morgan county, Ind., Oct. 21, 1829, and was therefore 85 years and 1 day old at the time of his death. He was married to Miss Eleanor Bain Nov. 14, 1847, and to this union 10 children were born - 3 boys and 7 girls, one of which died in infancy. Six of the children were born in Indiana. Mr. Hadley and family emigrated (sic) to Missouri in 1858, settling on a farm about 3 miles northwest of Cainsville where he continued to reside until 1882 when he moved to town to take charge of the post office which position he held for 10 or 12 years. Soon after the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in Co. I, 23rd Mo.Vol. Inft. and served faithfully until being honorably discharged June 10, 1865, when he returned and made this vicinity home until his death. He was Justice of the Peace in this township nearly a quarter of a century serving 22 yars at one time without a break in his service. He was a capable and painstaking official.
He was a member of the G.A.R., I.O.O.F., and M.E. church, and was especially prominent in G.A.R. circles. On memorial occasions he always carried the flag he loved so well and it occupied a prominent place among the decorations at his funeral.
His wife passed on to the Better Land Aug. 18, 1907, since which time he has kept house, one of his daughters living with him the last few years.
Funeral services were conducted at the M.E. church in Cainsville Monday, Oct. 23, at 2 P.M. conducted by Rev. W.E. Tinney, Pastor, from the text found in James 4:14, after which interment was made in the Oakland cemetery according to I.O.O.F. ritual.
He was a highly respected citizen and leaves a host of relatives to mourn his death.
Francis I. Hale was born on January 9, 1827, in Wayne County, Ky. When about one year of age, he moved with his parents to Morgan county, Ind.
In February, 1852 he was united in marriage to Miss Delilah Coffee and to this union seven children were born, three boys and four girls.
In the year 1855, he with his family moved to Iowa, and in December of the same year they moved to Harrison county, Mo., where he purchased 85 acres of land with improvements consisting of a good house and other buildings. The house burned down before he moved into it, and he put up a log cabin which served him as a house for many years.
In August, 1866, the wife died, leaving her husband and their small children, John H. Hale, Alonzo W. Hale, Mary A. Hale and Martha E. Hale, their other three children having died in infancy.
In the year 1867, on August 18, Mr. Hale was united in marriage to Miss Nancy Hobbs, and to this union four children were born, one child, Nora Bell, dying in infancy. The three remaining were Sarah, Charles H. and James H. Hale. Sarah and Charles S. Hale both died prior to their father.
During the war Mr. Hale enlisted, but was rejected on account of his eyes. He was a staunch Republican and took an active interest in politics until his health gave out, and his activities to decline.
He was 86 years, 5 months and 1 day old when he departed this life. He had been ill for several weeks.
Uncle Frank Hale has been a good citizen, a good neighbor, a kind and loving husband and father, and his aged wife, who walked as faithfully by his side, has been left to finish the journey alone, yet not without comfort, for she has one faithful son, James, close at hand to look after her wants and watch over her in her declining years.
Mr. Hale, though not a member of any church, was very active in the building of Hale Chapel, which is located near his house.
Funeral services were held at the house, conducted by Rev. Shultz, and the body laid to rest in the West cemetery on Wednesday, June 11, 1914, a host of friends paying their respect to their old neighbor and friend.
Uncle Frank Hale was a good natured and interesting character who loved a joke as few old people do. Age had taken away much but not his sense of humor, or his interest in those around him.
He leaves a wife, three sons and two daughters besides a host of grandchildren to mourn their loss and to them is extended the sympathy of many friends.
-- Mrs. O.W. Curry
Mrs. Nancy McNelly Hale died Friday evening at the home of her son Jas. Hale, west of town. Mrs. Hale was 83 years old, but had been in fairly good health until only a few days before her death. She was born in Indiana, March 21, 1837. Was married to Edmon Hobbs in 1855. One child was born to this union, Francis Hobbs who preceded his mother in death. In 1857 she came to Missouri and lived with her father. Here she was united in marriage to Francis Hale. They lived a number of years in a log house. Afterwards they erected a new house. Here they lived happily until death called Mr. Hale to the Better World. Two sons and two daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hale, but three have gone on to their Heavenly Home, leaving one son Jas. Hale who lives at the old home.
Mother Hale has always been a good and kind neighbor and loved by all who knew her. She gave her life to Christ in love and service while young and united with the M. E. church. She remained a faithful member of this church until the U. B. church was organized in the old home school house, when she transferred her membership to that church. She was a faithful worker in both this class and the Eagleville class where her membership has been the past year.
Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at Hobbs Chapel by Rev. Hoagwood and interment in Hobbs cemetery.
[NOTE] George W. Hawk's military service records state that he was captured during Stonewall Jackson's initial assault at Chancellorsville and was briefly held prisoner at Belle Isle prison at Richmond, Virginia. There is no indication that he was ever held at Andersonville prison.
Ridgeway Journal - Sep 18, 1913
Mrs. George White Hawk was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, Oct 7, 1815, and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs Charles Hogan, in Grant township, May 18, 1919 at the age of 73 years. 7 months and 11 days.
September 6, 1868, deceased was united in marriage to George W. Hawk at Batesville, Missouri. To this union were born three children, Mrs Charles Hogan and George W. Hawk, Jr., of Harrison County and Tricy Etta Hawk who died in infancy.
At the age of 10 years, Mrs Hawk was converted and united with the Christian church in which she retained her membership to the end of her earthly pilgrimage. For a number of years past, she was deprived the privilege of attending divine worship, having to care for her husband who was an invalid for a number of years and other circumstances beyond her control.
Since the death of her husband, which occured in 1913, Mrs Hawk lived with her daughter, Mrs Charles Hogan, where she was tenderly cared for in her declining years.
Besides her son and daughter, Mrs Hawk is survived by six grandchildren together with other relatives who mourn the departure of a good mother, grandmother and friend.
Mrs Hawk's illness was of short duration. She suffered little and quietly and peacefully passed away to her eternal rest triumphant in the faith of a crucified Savior.
Funeral services were held by the writer at Prairie Chapel Church, Sunday May 18 in the presence of a large number of sympathizing neighbors and friends, after which her mortal remains were laid to rest by the side of the sacred dust of her husband, there to be till time shall be no more. May God give the bereaved family comfort in the hour of their sorrow.
- Alex Reed
CENTER>____________________________________________________________
Subject: JOHNNY ROY HOGAN
Submitter: Phil Stewart (jjhist@grm.net)
Source: Bethany Republican-Clipper, Feb 10, 1952
Pvt Johnny Roy Hogan, youngest son of Earnest and Anna Hogan, was born in Omaha, Neb., Dec 25, 1929 and died while serving his country in Korea on Oct 4, 1951, at the age of 21 years, nine months and nine days.
When Johnny was 10 days old his mother passed away, leaving his father with five small children, and it was when he was three months old that his aunt and uncle, John and Mary (Hogan) Bartlett took him into their home and he became a son and brother to them and their daughters, Mildred, now Mrs Andy Walker, and Mauree, now Mrs Raymond Allen. He was loved as their very own, and it was in their home that he grew up.
He lived all his life around Ridgeway, Mo., and attended grade and high school there. The last five years he spent in California. It was here again he was deprived of a mother's love, as his aunt passed away in 1948.
On March 14, 1951, he was inducted into the army at Ft Ord, Calif., and was later transferred to Camp Roberts where he finished his basic training. He left the States on Aug 1 and was sent to Korea and the front lines, where he served in the 8th Cavalry Regiment until his death.
Johnny was liked by everyone, and there never was a task too big for him to undertake and finish. He was always cheerful and had a smile and kind word for everyone. He was always a kind brother, and considerate and loving son.
Besides the foster father and foster sisters, he leaves his father and stepmother, Mrms Earnest Hogan; two brothers, Tom and Dale, and two sisters, Agnes and Mary Ann, all of Omaha, Neb., also two uncles, Charley Hogan of Ridgeway, Mo., and Homer Hogan of Gilman City, Mo., and many other relatives and a host of friends.
His mother, one brother, and aunt preceded him in death.
Full military funeral services were Wednesday, Jan 23, at Kirkley chapel under the direction of the American Legion Post of Ridgeway. Music was furnished by the Kirkley chior, with the Rev E. I. Webber officiating.
The seeming heavy weight of an under garment, removed from the body of Mrs Rachel Hopper, aged Hatfield woman who died Saturday, recalled two days later to the mind of one who handled it, resulted Monday in the discovery, in all, of $2188 which Mrs Hopper had hidden or saved.
Mrs Hopper was a pensioner, and died Saturday afternoon.
That night, J. P. Ragan, Ridgeway undertaker, was called to embalm Mrs Hopper's body and had some assistance from a young man named Wyant, of the Hatfield community. Wyant carried some of Mrs Hopper's garments out of the room where the body lay, and subconsciously noted the seemingly heavy weight of one of them. On Monday, just before the funeral, Wyant called Ragan aside. He had been thinking of this weight, he said, and asked Ragan, who also is coroner, to investigate. The clothing lay as it had been tossed. Ragan picked up the garment and found a pocket with a narrow opening. Inside it were envelopes, and in each of the envelopes were bills, some of them gold certificates, and all except two of the old size. There was approximately $1,500 in the pocket.
In a purse which Mrs Hopper had given to a daughter to keep was $690 and a liberty bond of $50. A little more than $20 was found in another pocketbook. In a kitchen cabinet was found a cigar box containing more money and several notes.
The total amount found was $2188.
Sheriff W. H. Webb was called to Hatfield Monday, and it was his investigation which disclosed the rest of the money. It was given into his charge to await the appointment of an administrator.
E.T. Hutchinson was born in Henry County, Kentucky, Nov. 13th, 1833 and remained there until the winter of 1856 when he emigrated with his parents to Harrison County,Missouri until the winter of 1858, when he made a visit to Kentucky and remained there until the next spring when he returned to Missouri. At the age of fifteen years, he joined the Missionary Baptist Church, and remained a member of said church until he emigrated to Missouri, bringing his letter from that church and depositing it with the separate Baptist church in Harrison County and remained a member of that church until it disbanded. He afterward united with the Cumberland Presbyterian church and remained a faithful and consistent member. On the 19th day of August 1858, he was united in marriage to Mary E. Jones of Harrison County, to which five children were born, viz: William A. Hutchinson, who died in childhood and buried in the family burying ground: Eugene T. Hutchinson, who died and is buried at the Stanton Cemetery in Illinois; John H. Hutchinson, who lives in North Dakota; Lizzie J. Hutchinson, who lives in St. Joseph; James R. Hutchinson who lives in Hot Springs, Arkansas. In the fall of 1864, Mr. Hutchinson moved with his family to Illinois and afterward moved to McCoupin , Illinois where he lived until he returned to Missouri in the spring of 1866. Mr. Hutchinson's first wife Mary E. died on the 16th day of April 1867. Mr. Hutchinson was united in marriage with Amanda Ramey, March 11, 1869, to which union six children were born, viz: Mary F. Hutchinson, who lives in Harrison County; E. E. Hutchinson, who lives in Harrison County, and still remains on the old home place; Lydia A. Hutchinson, residence unknown; Cora and Dora, who died in infancy and were buried in the family burying ground; E.T. Hutchinson who lives in North Dakota . For the past two years Mr. Hutchinson has been in declining health and February 9th last, was confined to his bed, where he has been most all the time since, with a combination of dropsy and heart trouble. On Monday eve, about 6:30 , July 8th, he was called home. He was a patient sufferer until the end, and bore his afflictions well. Born November 18th, 1833, dies July 8th, 1907, aged 73 years 7 months and 25 days.
Miss Pearl, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Lawrence, died at her home in this city Wednesday morning, Jan. 3, 1912, at 2 o'clock. Miss Pearl had been in poor health for several months, but not until the last few days was she compelled to take her bed. She was seventeen years old, a sweet Christian girl and an excellent student, being a Junior in high school. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon and the remains taken to Dale cemetery for interment.
Elmore Y. Lingle was born in Fulton County, Ohio, Jan 7, 1847, and died in Kansas City, Mo., where he had gone for medical treatment, December 30, 1911, aged 64 years, 11 months and 35 days.
He was married to Miss Marie Cline October 15, 1874. To this union was born one child, Walter, who with his mother survives the father.
Bro. Lingle professed faith in Christ and joined the Congregational church about the year 1890.
He served in the War of the Rebellion in Company E of the 68th Ohio Regiment, Infantry. He held his membership in the G. A. R. post in Bethany.
Brother Lingle was a man with great courage in fighting the ills of life, and did not surrender until he was completely worn out.
Bethany has lost a good citizen, the son a sympathetic father and the wife a true husband. Your loss though, is his gain.
Funeral services were conducted from the residence on Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock Jan. 1, 1912, by the undersigned. T. D. Neal Post G. A. R., conducted their service at the home, and the remains were laid to rest in Pythian cemetery.
May the conforting influence of the Spirit be yours during these trying days of sorrow.
W. J. Willis
Mr. Martin married Elsie Titus in 1945 in Santa Barbara, Calif.
Visitation is from 4-8p.m. Tuesday at Stacy-Lewis Funeral Home, Columbus Junction. Services will be 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Conesville Cemetery. A memorial has been established. He was an Army veteran of World War II.
Survivors include his wife; daughters, Nancy Carson, Monterey, Calif., and Susan Martin, Clearwater, Fla., a son, Danny, Casselberry, Fla, three grandchildren; sisters, Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles) Keef, Omaha, Neb.,and Alice Yotter, West Liberty; and brothers, William, Grandview; Thomas, Ainsworth; Arthur, North Liberty, and Harold, Muscatine.
(NOTES): Eugene Everett Martin was born May 30, 1916 near Blythedale, Harrison Co, MO, a son of Thomas and Alice Woodward Martin. The family removed from Harrison County in approximately 1926 to River Junction, Johnson Co, IA.
There are several errors contained within this obituary. Marriage year is 1943, not 1945. Correct spelling of son's name is Dannie. Eugene was a Staff Sgt in the 182nd Americal Division Company E stationed in the Solomon Islands during World War II and received a number of decorations including the Bronze Star.
He leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife, Mary, of the home. His children include Herbert McLain of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Mrs. Mabel Zweimiller , Ms. Roma Butler and Mrs. Marguerite Cordle of Kansas City, Missouri; Earnie McLain of Mt. Moriah, Missouri; Noel, Clarence and Robert McLain of Cainsville, Missouri and a grandson, Ted McLain, whom they reared, of the home.
In addition to the immediate family, relatives include 31 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, one brother, Tom McLain, numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
Funeral services were held at the Assembly of God Church in Cainsville Wednesday afternoon, November 25, 1964 at 1:30 o'clock. The Rev. S.R. Cox officiating. Burial in the Zoar Cemetery (Cainsville, MO).
Darryl grew up and attended school in Mt. Moriah. He served in the military from 1952-54 with an 18 month tour of duty in Korea.
In 1956, Darryl started his permanent career with the Missouri State Highway Departmnet. That same year, he was wed to Evelyn Leora Parkhusrt of Eagleville, Missouri. From this union four children were born: twins Ronnie Dean and Connie Jean, Sheryl Ann and Gary Wayne.
Darryl spent most of his life living and working in Mt. Moriah retiring from the State Highway Department after 37 years of sevice.
Darryl's family and grandchildren were important to him. He especially liked to spoil the grandkids with motorcycle and go-car rides and 4th of July fireworks.
Darryl also enjoyed several hobbies and interests. He spent several years playing guitar and singing with various country western bands. He loved his music and taught his son, Gary, to play the mandolin at a very young age. Other hobbies included hunting rattlesnakes, mushrooms, deer and rabbits, fishing and camping.
Preceding him in death were two of his children: Ronnie Dean in 1956; Sheryl Ann in 1980 and his parents: May in 1977, Earnie in 1980.
Survivors include his wife: Leora of Bethany; children Connie Guldner and husband, Jess, Wichita, Kansas; Gary McLain and wife, Debra, of Albany, Missouri; 8 grandchildren: Lindsey, Loni, Jake, Josh, Chad, Kelly, Cody and Salena; 2 great-grandchildren: Kristian and Dallas; and 2 brothers, Dean McLain of Mt. Moriah and Ted McLain of Blythedale.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 29, 1998 at the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Mt. Moriah, Missouri, with Bro.Vic Buntin officiating. Special music was performed by Darryl's son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Debra, with accompaniment by Jim and Becky Hunsucker and included: "Purple Robe," "That's the Man I'm Looking For," and "Sheltered in the Arms of God." Special tributes were given in the form of poems by his granddaughter, Lindsey Constable of Mt. Moriah and his daughter, Connie McLain-Guldner. Pallbearers were: Chad Johnson, Cody McLain, Bill McLain, Randy McLain, Jay Rhea and David Doty.
Interment was at Lloyd Cemetery north of Mt. Moriah which included full military rites by the American Legion and VFW posts of Bethany and Albany.
Memorials have been established with the Mt. Moriah Batptist Church and the American Cancer Society.
Last week, in our notice of the return of Mr Neal from the north, we stated that his physicians were very much alarmed at his condition, and that the worst might be anticipated. We little thought at the time we wrote the article that the ink would not be dry on the papers issued last week before he had died. Yet such was the case. While his death was not unlooked for, still we had hopes that he would live at least until fall. Elsewhere in this paper will be seen the action taken by the Bar, the resolutions adopted and a biography of his life. He was buried last Saturday at Miriam Cemetery. The funeral services were conducted by Revs. I. Chivington and A. N. Cave. A large concourse of people followed the remains to their last resting place.
Thomas D. Neal had few if any equals in Harrison County in ability, honesty, integrity and true worth. His memory will live in the hearts of our people for many years. He had just attained that age in life when his powers of mind were at their brightest and fullest. A career more brilliant than ever was opening before him, but in the language of Hemans:
"Leaves have their time to fall.
And flowers to wither at the north wind's breath.
And stars to set - bear all.
Thou hast all seasons for thine own, oh Death!
We know when moons shall wane,
When summer birds from far shall cross the sea,
When autumn's hues shall touch the golden grain,
But who shall tell us when to look for thee?"
Thomas D. Neal
Meeting of the Harrison County Bar
The members of the Bar of Harrison County met at the office of Alvord & Woodruff on Friday, Sept 2d 1881 to pay proper respect to the memory of Thomas D. Neal, Esq., their late associate in the profession.
On motion, Judge Howell was called to the chair, and J. C. Wilson appointed Secretary, after which D. S. Alvord stated that the object of the meeting was to tender the services of the Bar at the funeral to the family of deceased, and to draught resolutions of condolence. The following members were appointed on resolution:
D. J. Heaston, D. S. Alvord and S. W. Vandivert
Other committees were appointed as follows:
Pall Bearers - G. W. Barlow, C. S. Winslow, G. W. Wanamaker, S. McCray, S, W, Leslie and William H. Skinner.
To procure carriages for Pall Bearers - Messrs. Wanamaker, Leslie and Vandivert.
Oscar Butler was appointed as master of ceremonies, and as committee to tender services of Bar to family.
On motion of J. H. Philebaum, it was declared that the members would close their offices on the day of the funeral, Sept 3d.
On motion of D. J. Heaston, a meeting was called for Sept 3d at 4 p.m. at Alvord & Woodruff's office, to receive the report of the committee on resolutions, and to adopt the same.
Adjourned to that date.
(Please see biography on H.C. Biography page.)
After the sun has set beyond the western horison and the shadows gather o'er vale and hill, we behold a wonderous glow, transfiguring in glorious and beautiful colors the departing day. Thus it is when the noble life of a Christian mother comes to a close and those who are sorely bereft, feel about them the darkness of bereavement. But they may look upward and see the beautiful memories of her earthly life, set in the splendor of the promise of immortality.
The long useful life of Mother Nelles of 87 years is ended but her character, built upon the foundation of truth and rightousness, will abide forever, not only in the hearts and minds of her loved ones left behind, but in the life beyond.
Rebecca Jane Colwell was born Jan 10, 1855, at Kincardine, Bruce county, Ontario, Cananda, where she grew to womanhood. On April 10, 1873, she united in marriage with Isaac Nelles of Toronto, Canada. Shortly after their marriage they came to the United States, settling on a prairie homestead in South Dakota, where they resided 26 years. They underwent many hardships, as that was a new country, with only Indian trails. Their nearest town, the village of Scotland, S. D., consisted of one small store, blacksmith shop and hotel. Homes were many miles apart. Fuel was scarce and they took ox teams and drove 18 miles for wood. Mother Nelles often related how uneasy the wives of those men would be until their return for fear of hostile Indians.
In 1896 they moved to Harrison county, Missouri, east of Ridgeway, where they observed their golden wedding anniversary April 10, 1923. Three years later the husband was called home and this faithful wife was left in the old homestead, where so many fond memories clung. Nine years ago she established a happy home with her daughter, Mrs Omer Provin, and it was here she closed her eyes to the scenes of this life July 23, 1942, at the age of 87 years, six months and 13 days. How sweet to think of death as expressed in the following beautiful lines:
Col J. M. Neville died at the residence of his son, J. M. Neville, in Bethany, Mo, February 10, 1907, aged 91 years, 7 months and 15 days.
With the mustering out last Sunday of this noble old veteran, Col J. M. Neville, there passed to the Great Beyond the last of the most remarkable twins in the United States. The other twin, Col H. O. Neville, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs R. H. Grinstead, in Ridgeway, Mo., October 8, 1904. These brothers were born in Barren county, Ky. of June 25, 1815. They married sisters, Misses Rhoda and Lilly Ann Brooks, both of whom preceded their husbands to the spirit land a number of years ago. They moved to Harrison county in 1850, both making this their home until death claimed them. Both were farmers by occupation until retiring from active work. Both of them were active members of the Baptist church for many years and held offices of trust in same. Both were excellent singers. During the Civil War, both were Colonels. J. M. being Colonel of the 58th Enrolled Militia and M. O. Colonel of the 3rd Mo Cav., M.S.M. Both had also served as Colonel, at different times, of the 101st regiment, 20th brigade of Kentucky militia, before moving to Missouri. H. O. Neville was a member of the county court of Hart county, Ky., previous to his moving to Missouri, and in 1856 was elected to represent Harrison county in the Missouri legislature. J. M. Neville was elected as a member of the county court of this county in 1856 and twice represented this county in the state legislature, from 1858-60 and 1880-82. Both were stalwart and influential Republicans.
Their descendants number over 125. No better citizens and neighbors and earnest Christians than the colonels have ever lived and it is doubtful if any two other brothers could show such a remarkable record as that made by "the Neville twins".
Below we give the names and post office addresses of the children of the two brothers:
J. M. Neville's Family:
Mrs J. A. Poynter, Bethany
G. W. Neville, Dighton, Kansas
H. H. Neville, Kansas City
Mrs Bea Baker, LaJunta, Colorado
Mrs Vina Richardson, Myers Fall, Washington
J. M. Neville, Bethany
J. W. Neville, Atwood, Kansas
C. W. Neville, Boulder, Colorado
Mrs Wm Brown, Ridgeway
Mrs Ulysses Bridges, Blythedale
H. O. Neville's Family:
Geo T. Neville, St Joseph
Mrs R. H. Grinstead, Kansas City
Mrs Huldah Patton, Kohomo, Indiana
Mrs S. J. Kinkade, Dodge City, Kansas
Mrs R. Richardson, Nevada, Mo.
W. J. Neville, the first child, died at his residence in Blythedale about 7 years ago.
The funeral services of Col J. M. Neville were held at the Baptist church in Blythedale on Tuesday at 2:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev J. H. Burrows of Cainsville, after which the body was laid to rest in the Neville graveyard. Peace to the ashes of one of whom it may truly be said: "He has felt the breath of the eternal morning."
[NOTES]
"H. O." Neville was Henry O'Bannon Neville. "J. M." was James Madison Neville. They were the sons of William and Millander "Mildred" Neville.
The article states that Colonel Neville was buried at the "Neville graveyard". Both brothers and other members of their families are buried at Cedar Hill Cemetery at Blythedale. Whether or not this cemetery was originally the Neville graveyard is unknown. The is no record of a Neville graveyard in the Harrison County list of cemeteries and known burials.
The tombstone of H. O. Neville and a few other family members who are buried at Cedar Hill cemetery spells the surname as "Nevill"... without the final "e".
The article states that M. O. Neville was colonel of the 3rd Mo Cav., M.S.M. The "M.S.M." stands for Missouri State Militia. These militia groups were locally organized and the officers were elected by the regiment. Their primary duty was the protection of the local population and property.
James Price died at his residence in Adams Township, Harrison county, Mo., on Wednesday, April 26th, 1893, at 7 o'clock, a.m., aged 72 years, 8 months and 11 days.
Deceased was born in Bracken County, Kentucky, January 15th, 1821. He moved to Tippecanoe County, Indiana in 1842. He was married to Mrs. Ellen Lane (nee Dimmitt) in Indiana on May 2nd, 1850. In the fall of that year he removed to Fulton county, Illinois. He again removed to Harrison County, Missouri in 1856, and in the following spring located on the farm where he continued to reside until his death, except a temporary residence at Edinburg for educating his children. At the age of twenty-one he made a profession of religion and united with the Baptist church at Middletown, Indiana, and continued a member of the Baptist church until his death, covering a period of more than fifty years. For twenty years he filled the office of deacon acceptably. He was the father of six children, all of whom, with his wife, survive him. His wife and children were all with him in the last sickness, and were present at his burial. His character was of singular simplicity and purity. He was modest in his demeanor, unselfish and conscientious in his purposes and efforts. He was a stranger to self-seeking and ostentation. Few, if any, more nearly lived the golden rule day by day.
Such a life and character found reward in the respect of all who knew him, in the confidence and esteem of a wide circle of friends and in the strong affection of his family and relatives. He endured his last painful sickness patiently, and passed under the shadow of death without fear or faltering. After living to see his children all grown and settled in life and members of the church of his choice, he died in the fullness of his years closing a blameless life and leaving a precious memory which will be to his children, especially, a benediction forever.
Obituary of Darby Ragan: Died October 8, 1875, in Harrison County, Missouri.
Darby Ragan; aged sixty-seven years, four months, and nine days.
Bro. Ragan was born in East Tennessee, May 29, 1808; professed religion when young, and joined the Methodist Church, in which he served as class leader. He was married to Esther Barnett on the 20th of October, 1831. He lived in the Methodist Church until three of his children professed religion and joined the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He then joined with them, his wife being a member of that Church before they were married. Soon after he joined the Cumberland Presbyterian church, he was elected and ordained ruling elder, where he served the Church faithfully until death. He moved to Missouri in the fall of 1851. He lost his wife, who died suddenly from a stroke of the palsy, August 6, 1871. Bro. Ragan was on his way home from attending the session of Chillicothe Presbytery, and visiting some of his children. There were four of them riding in a small wagon, he and his sister were sitting on the hindmost seat, it being a spring seat, was going up a hill. The horses going quite brisk the wheels on one side slid into a rut twelve or fifteen inches deep; when they struck the bank to rise out of the rut, they balanced back, upsetting the seat--they both went out backwards, he falling on his neck and shoulders, affecting his spine, bruising or breaking some blood vessels inwardly, as he threw up blood. He lived only seventeen hours, but he retained his proper mind. He gave instruction in regard to his temporal affairs, spoke of death with composure and resignation, and died as only the Christian dies, in perfect peace with God and all man kind. If he had an enemy no one knew it. He left seven children, all professors of religion, two of his children being ministers, five others gone before. The Church has lost a faithful servant, the world an ornament of piety and love, his children an affectionate father, whose decease they will mourn while life lasts. -- John Wayman
Edna D. Redinger was born May 23, 1874, the daughter of John R. and Elizabeth Riley. She passed away July 8, 1951 at the age of 77 years.
On December 1910, 1905 she was married to George E. Redinger in Cainsville. To this union two sons were born, George Riley and Garland Dean. Her husband preceded her in death January 20, 1926.
Shortly after her marriage, she and Mr. Redinger united with the Methodist Church in Cainsville. She was a faithful and devout member of the church until her death. Though ill health prohibited her from attending church services regularly, her interest remained keen in the work of the church.
She is survived by her two sons, George Riley of St. Joseph and Garland Dean of Cainsville. Also surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Annie Laura Glendenning of Geneva , Indiana, and Mrs Alma O. Swigart, Marshall, Oklahoma; her daughters-in-law and four grand-children: Joyce, Harold, Nancy and Phyllis, and many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon July 11 at two o'clock at the Methodist church by the Rev. Marvin T. Judy. Mrs. Martha Downy, Mrs. Bess Pearson, Mrs. Maude Oliphant and Mrs. Mabel Tucker, accompanied at the organ by Mrs. Mary Baker, sang "Nearer My God to Thee" and "God Will Take Care of You." Mrs. Downy sang "Beautiful Isle." Pallbearers were Allan Frazier, George Thompson Jr., Adolph Peshek, J. W. Vanderpool, Jerry Brejnik, and Stanley Maple.
Burial was in Zoar cemetery with E. J. Stoklasa, mortician in charge.
CARD OF THANKS
We wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the acts of kindness, messages of sympathy and the beautiful floral tributes received from our kind neighbors and friends during our bereavement in the loss of our Mother and Sister
Mr. and Mrs. Dean Redinger and family, Mr. and Mrs. Riley Redinger and family, Mr. Alma Swigart and Mrs. Laura Glendenning
Six children were born to them, three boys and three girls: William A., George F., John F., Sarah C., Rosa B., and Mary L.
In 1860 through the ministry of Rev. Burton he and his wife united with the Methodist Episcopal church at Buckly Chapel.
Uncle Fred, as he was affectionately called, was a man of many excellent qualities. He was a kind husband and father, a good neightbor, a good citizen and a man of honor.
He lived in fear of God, loving His service and died in an unclouded trust. His last days were spent in conversation with neighbors and friends, exhorting them to give their hearts to God.
His memory will be precious to many who are left behind. The sympathy of all is extended to the bereaved family. Funeral services at M. E. church conducted by Rev. J. H. Walker and Elder W. H. Richardson. Interment in Ridgeway cemetery.
-- J. H. Walker
Elizabeth Lay was born in the state of Indiana, Dec 25, 1849, and died at her home in Cainsville, Mo., June 13, 1924. She re-moved to Missouri with her parents when a child settling on a farm north of Cainsville where she grew to womanhood.
January 29, 1871 she was married to John R. Riley. To them were born four daughters, three of whom survive their mother: Mrs. Laura Baker of Cainsville, Mo., Mrs. Edna Redinger, of Cainsville, Mo., and Mrs. Alma Swigart, of Marshall, Okla. The husband and one daughter, Mrs. Cora Hutchinson, preceded her in death.
.
A number of years ago she gave her heart to God and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church of which she remained a faithful member until her death. She leaves besides the three daughters, one brother and three grand-children, with a host of friends to mourn her going.
Sister Riley has been a sufferer for years. While her going was sudden, yet not unexpected. She was ready to meet her Savior.
Funeral services were conducted at the M. E. Church, June 14, 1924, at 3:30 p. m.
CARD OF THANKS
We desire to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to all who so kindly assisted us in the sickness and death of our mother.
The Children
It is with a sad heart that we make the announcement of the death of Mrs Mary Rimmer, who died February 15, 1908, at the home of her daughter, Mrs Lew Campbell.
Deceased was born in Ray county, Missouri in the year 1830, departed this life February 15, 1908, aged 77 years, 2 months and 18 days. She was a member of the Christian church of Martinsville for several years and lived a constant Christian life until her death. She leaves to mourn her death besides a host of friends, seven children all of whom survive her - three boys and four girls: Richard Rimmer, Barton county, Mo.; John Rimmer, Utopa, Kan.; William Rimmer, Esbon, Kansas; Mrs James Wiley, New Hampton; Mrs John Grace, Martinsville; Mrs Napoleon Vanhoozer, Nellie, Okla.; and Mrs Lew Campbell, Hatfield.
Funeral services were conducted at the Christian church at Martinsville by Rev Alsup. A sweet and lovable woman has passed into the great beyond, whose mysteries are unknown to us, but hope and faith tell us that something and some place we shall all meet again where no farewell tears are shed. She has answered the call and her life work is ended. She has kept the faith and received a crown of righteousness in exchange for a noble and Christian like life. Her dear companion left this world of care and sorrow several years ago. Oh, but it is pleasant indeed to imagine that these two faithful souls have been reunited, never again to be separated.
[NOTE] Mary Rimmer was the daughter of Martin and Nancy (Clevenger) Adams. Mary was about 10 years old when her father was stabbed to death on the town square of Richmond, Missouri (Ray County) in March, 1841.
TRIBUTE BY A FRIEND
Col. Robinson was a man of noble character, and always set for himself high standards.
Brave as a soldier, he was fearless as a public officer in civil life.
He was an upright man with a spotless reputation, such a man as entitled him to love, honor, and remembrance. Ever performing his own duties, ever mindful of the rights of others, he was a faithful officer, a good neighbor, a true friend, a good, kind, loving husband and father.
He was ever emulous of good associations and had a broader grasp than that of his own needs and wants. He was public spirited and liked to see progress and improvement. He was law-abiding, order loving and patriotic.
As a citizen, the questions to which he ever sought were, what is right? what is best for my country? and when he solved these in accordance with his best judgment, there was no swerving him from the conclusion reached.
His life stood for the best. His services to the country and his usefulness as a citizen in his community will long be remembered and appreciated. Those who knew him best, loved him most.
But he has gone to his reward as a true and faithful steward; he has entered into rest.
He will be missed by all and more especially by his family and “old Comrades of the 23rd Regt., MO. Inft,” of which he was Colonel.
As he was laid to rest in Miriam cemetery, and the mound over him was covered with flowers, their freshness and fragrance remind us of the beauty of his life among us, and the purity and sweetness of the life to which he has gone.
NOTE: Please see biography on Biography page on the Harrison Co. web site.
(Note: The other two were Nora Bowman and Levi Grant. Please see alphabetically.)
Wm. P. Rupe fatally injured by a Runaway Team
His subsequent death, and burial by the Odd Fellows
On Thursday, the 8th inst., Mr. William P. Rupe of this place, and his son Andrew, were unloading some wood from a wagon to which the old gentleman's team of two horses were attached, when an accident occurred the result of which has left a deep impress of sadness upon the community. As the owner of the team was descending from the wood on to the double tree, his foot slipped and a stick in his hand struck one of the horses at which the team became frightened and dashed off with great speed. The team ran across the road and over the sidewalk. The wagon struck the corner post of a fence, breaking the post in twain and smashing the wagon generally. Andrew Rupe, being on the wagon at the time, was precipitated to the sidewalk and received quite a cut on his hand, and either by the kicking of the horses or being run over by the wagon, or both, his father was fatally injured, being bruised and wounded upon the head, face and left side. He was taken home as soon as possible and his wounds dressed by Dr. G.W. Newman. He was affectionately attended by the physician, his afflicted family and many kind friends, who did all in their power to alleviate his sufferings and aid his recovery, but his injuries were both complicated and serious, culminating in his death at 10 o'clock A.M. May 15, 1873.
William P. Rupe was an old citizen of Bethany, having resided here about fifteen years. He was born in Pennsylvania, in 1811, and after leaving that State lived in Ohio, Indiana and Iowa, respectively. He had been a member of the Odd Fellows' fraternity since 1863, and we have heard it stated that during all that time he never missed a dozen of its weekly meetings. His remains were buried by that order, last Friday, with the fullest honor.
Deceased leaves a wife and six children to mourn his violent death. He was not a man of wealth, but made his living by the sweat of his brow, and in his 62nd year, while at labor, he received the injuries that caused his death. But one thing will be said by all who knew him--He was an Honest Man. We never yet heard one person say that William P. Rupe wronged him out of a cent. Such a legacy to his children is of more value than millions of gold. May his ashes rest in peace.
William Rusk
The subject of this sketch was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, April 16th, 1816, and died at his home in Bethany, Missouri, July 12th, 1893, after a useful and honorable life of 78 years.
In his youth he removed to Illinois, where he married Miss Priscilla Eades, a sister of Henry Eades of this county. Twelve children were born of this union, ten of whom survive, to await the next meeting with their beloved father on the other shore. All but three of the surviving children were present at the funeral.
During the progress of the war of the rebellion, his intense loyalty led him in the path of duty and he enlisted in Co I, 1st Ill Vol. Infantry and served his country faithfully. In this service he incurred the chronic disease that clung to him until death came to his relief. Yet in all his sufferings he never expressed regret for the sacrifice he had made to save the country he loved, but gloried in the duty performed.
He removed to Harrison County, Missouri immediately after the war and settled on a farm in Sherman township where he lived happily and comfortably for many years until his children were grown and commencing life themselves, when he sold the farm and removed to Bethany where he has since resided
His beloved wife died June 26th, 1887, and the happy married life of 40 years duration was ended. Since her death he had lived with and been kindly cared for by his dutiful daughters.
He was a conscientious member of the Christian church for many years and although his earthly vision had become dim with age and disease, he was enabled with the eye of faith to see clearly into the future and beheld the promised glory of his Heavenly home.
The funeral services were held at the Christian church on the day after his death, conducted by Elder W. H. Williams.
The burial services was conducted by his comrades of T. D. Neal Post, G. A. R. and a large concourse of comrades and friends followed the hearse to Miriam cemetery where the solemn and impressive ceremonies were performed by the Post officials.
By his death the community has lost an excellent citizen, the church a valued and useful member, the Post a faithful and loyal comrade and his children a fond and cherished father.
Standing out prominently in the life of William Rusk were the characteristics of integrity and loyalty. He had the courage of his honest convictions and was loyal to his God, his country and his home. He has gone to the reward promised for a righteous life and with the saints of all ages, in the harmony of eternity and the joys of immortality, he will dwell forever more.
Charlie was just in the prime of life, when some time ago, while away from home for a few weeks, he was exposed to the rain and contracted a severe cold which terminated in consumption. All that medical skill, devoted parents, brothers and friends could do, proved of no avail.
In December, Charles, in company with his brother, Adolph, left for California in hopes he might regain his health, but in a few weeks he decided to return home. For awhile he remained about the same, but when a relapse came, he failed rapidly. He was of a kind, affectionate disposition, always pleasant with those with whom he associated. A few days before his death, he expressed himself to his mother, as not being afraid to die.
Funeral services were conducted at the home of his parents, by Rev. Oatman, assisted by Rev. Watson, of Coffey. The remains, carried by six young men, were quietly laid to rest in the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.
Bessie L. Scott was born Oct 2, 1883, died Feb 25, 1904, aged 20 years, 4m, 23d. She grew to young womanhood surrounded by parents, brothers and sister and a large number of other relatives. Her friends she numbered by her acquaintances, for to know her was to love her.
A few short months ago, it seemed to all that she had a happy, useful life before her, much to the comfort of her father and mother, who soon will be going down the decline of life.
When doctors, praents and friends could hold out no encouragement to her, still she would smile and say that when it was warm and nice so she could walk out, she would get well. A day or two before her death, she spoke as though she thought she might not get well, and a few hours before her death she gave instructions as to what she wished to leave for her relatives and friends, then she called each one present to her bedside and kissed them "goodbye". She had often spoken of the two absent brothers, one in Atchison county and the other in California. She requested those present to sing and in one song, "Oh! Think of the Home Over There," her lips joined in the words which her voice was too weak to utter; then, with a smile on her lips, she passed to that home where death never comes.
On Friday at 1:00 p.m., funeral services were conducted at the twice stricken home by Rev. Oatman. Rev. Watson spoke a few words of comfort to the heart broken family, then the casket with the earthly remains, carried by the same six young men, by their side walked six young ladies, her most intimate friends, and the body was tenderly laid to rest in the family lot in the cemetery.
Surviving are his wife, Katheryn; five sons, George of Unionville, Mo., James of Indianapolis, Ind., William of Des Moines and Steven and Garld, at home; two daughters, Karen and Cindy, both at home; a brother, Dean of Des Moines; two sisters, Pauline Axsom of San Jose, Calif.,and Betty Ashley of Des Moines; his mother, Mrs. Amanda Shafer of Des Moines, and eight grandchildren.
Charles acquired his education first in private schools and later in the public school of Bethany. At the age of 18 years he had completed more than the entire course of study required at that time. So ambitious and enthusiastic was he to acquire all the knowledge he could, that he carried two studies extra the last two years of the course. His instructor, John R. Kirk, now president of the Missouri State Normal at Kirksville, Mo., a teacher to whom Charlie became deeply attached and coveted his friendship, gave him encouragement to persevere. Every morning before schooltime Charles would have a recitation in chemistry and after school closed for the day he would stay and recite Latin. Taking up these two studies so delighted Mr Kirk that he gladly gave his time to help the young student. His ideal was to complete a course of study in medicine and he planned to go to the university of Pennsylvania in 1880. He wished to go there because his grandfather, Dr Jacob Sherer of Philadelphia, was a graduate of that institution. But it was not to be. His mother's failing health and death a few months later, caused him voluntarily to abandon his cherished plan, and whatever disappointment he may have suffered, no one knew. Cheerfully and courageously he joined hands with his father to keep the home intact and care for the younger children, and faithfully he performed his task, a task of love. His father came to Bethany in 1857 and established one of the first drug stores in this part of the country and continued in the business until the civil war. At the close of the war, Mr Sherer returned to Bethany and after a short time he again engaged in the drug business, and continued an active druggist until 1907. In 1880 the drug firm of Sherer & Son, T.N. Sherer and Charles A., was organized and continued until 1907 when failing health forced both father and son to retire.
September 14, 1886, Charles A. Sherer was united in marriage to Willimena Cumming, only daughter of Mr and Mrs Andrew Cumming of Bethany. Bethany has since been their home excepting four years spent in Colorado.
In 1885, Charlie united with the Christian church. In after years he transferred his membership to the Methodist Episcopal church, becoming an active member in all the different interests for the growth and advancement of the church. He delighted in Christian fellowship and in doing his bit for the kingdom of his Lord and Christ.
He was a member of the Mason fraternity, having attained to the Knights Templar degree; a member of the Knights of Pythias order; also a member of the Woodmen of the World and the Modern Woodmen of America.
Charlie's was a loveable character. There are few who are gifted with the naturally admirable and adaptable traits with which he was so richly endowed. Any change of circumstance or condition was met with the natural, unassumed and happy manner that became him so well. He was kind and companionable to children; genial, sociable and entertaining to his friends. He gave homage and reverence to old age. He knew no caste in the large circle of his acquaintance. A warm handclasp, a bright and kindly smile and a cheery greeting was his to give all he met.
Charlie was a public spirited citizen. In the first years of the twentieth century he was elected alderman of his ward. During his tenure of office his voice and vote were always given in favor of projects that would be for the betterment of Bethany. And why not? Bethany was his Alma Mater. About twenty years ago he suffered a physical breakdown, but recovered sufficiently to attend to his business for part of each year for five years, when he gave up active work. He was confined to his bed since December last, growing weaker and longing for release. Monday morning, August 13th, as the first ray of dawn penetrated the darkened sky and came shining through the leaf branches heralding the dawn of a new day, making a beautiful picture on which he gazed for a moment, and then we looked on the wan and weary face, and as we looked Charlie passed into his coronation day at the age of sixty-two years and seven days.
Funeral services were conducted by his pastor, Rev E. P. Reed at the Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock Friday afternoon August 17th, in the presence of a large number of his neighbors and friends. The text selected was the words "My Friend", which was well chosen. Burial was at Miriam cemetery under the auspices of his brethern of the Masonic fraternity using the ritualistic services of the order.
(NOTE - As Charles A. Sherer was rarely ever addressed by his friends in any other manner than by the use of his Christian name, because of the friendly affection and esteem in which he was held, the writer takes it for granted that all who knew him will approve the carrying out that sentiment in this obituary.)
Anita Marion Siddens, 77, former Eagleville resident, died late Saturday, Jan 19, at a Sulphur Springs hospital.
Mrs Siddens had been a resident of Sulphur Springs, Ark., since 1973. She was preceded in death by her husband, Emmery Siddens.
She had been an employee of the Citizens Bank of Blythedale and a member of the Blythedale Christian Church.
Survivors include two sons, Wayne VanDeventer, Homolulu, Hawaii, and Robert Siddens, Kansas City, Mo.; two daughters, Sharon Spicer, Gravette, Ark., and Dorothy Halderman, Sulphur Springs; two stepsons, L. Y. Siddens, Hutchinson, Kan., and Virgil Siddens, Osceola, Ia.; a step-daughter, Alice Jean Barnhouse, Blythedale, 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Services will be Wednesday, Jan 23, (today) at the Boggess Funeral Home at Eaglevulle at 2 p.m. Burial will be in the Blythedale Cedar Hill Cemetery.
V. Emery Siddens, son of Lowry and Grace (Edson) Siddens, was born July 18, 1909, in Bethany, Mo., and passed away Feb 19, 1973, at Noll hospital in Bethany, Mo., at the age of 63. He was preceded in death by his father and one sister.
Emery was united in marriage to Opal O'Neal and to this union was born three children: L. Y. Siddens, Oakhurst, New Jersey; Virgil Siddens, Osceola, Iowa; and Alice Jean Barnhouse, Blythedale, Missouri.
On Oct 22, 1941, he was united in marriage to Anita VanDeventer. To this union was born two children, Robert L. Siddens, Kansas City, Mo., and Sharon L. Richardson, Ridgeway, Missouri.
In addition to his children, he leaves two step-children, Wayne VanDeventer, Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, and Dorothy Holderman, Decatur, Arkansas.
He is also survived by his mother, Mrs Grace Siddens of Kansas City, Mo., and two sisters, Irene Campbell, Independence, Mo., and Arlene Edwards, Los Angeles, California. He also leaves several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Emery spent most of his life in Harrison County, Missouri.
Funeral services were held Feb 21, 1973 at the Boggess Funeral Home with Rev Oren Cossey officiating. Hymns were sung by Wilma Wilson and Maxine Emerson. The organ was played by Pearl VanHoozer.
Pallbearers were Richard Elliott, Lyle Richardson, Glen Trullinger, Rogene Slaughter, Robert Richardson, and Verle Brooks. Flower bearers: Jane Richardson, Shirley Elliott, Rachel Trullinger, Nina Ury and Karen Slaughter.
Burial at Cidar Hill Cemetery, Blythedale, Missouri.
The death of William R. Simms, a member of this Lodge, being reported, on motion William C. Heaston, W. P. Robinson and E. W. Banton were appointed a committee to prepare suitable memorial and resolutions in reference to the deceased.
The committee reported the following which were unanimously adopted:
Brother William R. Simms was born in Clark County, Ohio, Aug 14th, 1833 emigrated to Kansas in 1855 and settled in 1856 in this county. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Endsley in 1858, who with six children survive him. From the time of his locating in this county until Augst, 1861 he was engaged in teaching school. He then enlisted in the army and was elected 1st lieutenant of Company E. 23rd Mo Infantry and promoted to the captaincy of said company in 1862; and served as such captain until the regiment was mustered out of service on the 22d of September, 1864, when he again returned to Harrison County and was elected sheriff and collector in 1866 and re-elected in 1878. In 1872 was appointed to the position of mail agent on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad which position he held until the time of his unfortunate and tragic death, which was caused by the train being thrown from the track near Edgerton, Platte county, Mo. Dec 6th.
Brother Simms was made a Mason in Pleasant Ridge Lodge in Harrison County in 1859, and united with the Bethany Lodge Oct 28th, 1865 and has been a faithful member of this Lodge ever since. Therefore be it:
Resolved. That in the death of our Brother his family have lost a kind husband and father, his aged father an affectionate and beloved son, the country a valued citizen and this Lodge an esteemed member.
Resolved. That while we bow in humble submission to the power which has inflicted this sad blow, yet we most deeply deplore the early and tragic death of our Brother.
Resolved. That as a token of esteem for our esteem for our Brother, our Lodge be clothed in mourning and that the brethren wear the usual badge for thirty days.
Resolved. That the above resolutions be published, and also placed upon the Records of this Lodge.
W. C. Heaston
W. P. Robinson
E. W. Banton
Mrs. Mary Jane Slatten, nee Travis, wife of J. P. Slatten, was born in Harrison County, Mo in the spring of 1843 and died at her home near Bethany, last Thursday, February 25, 1904, after a few days illness of pneumonia, aged 61 years.
Deceased was married to J. P. Slatten Dec., 1858. To this union were born five children, four boys and one girl; Benjamin, the oldest child, dying in infancy. The children who survive her are David Slatten, who lives near the home place, Charles Slatten of Jamesport; John Slatten, who is now in California; and Alice, wife of Dr. Davenport of Trenton. Those children, with the husband and two brothers and three sisters are left to mourn the loss of a good wife, mother and sister.
Mrs. Slatten united with the Christian Church in Bethany in 1877 and had to the time of her death continued a faithful member. She had many friends and acquaintances in the county and all were grieved to learn of her death. Though never in robust health, yet being very ambitious she would not give up, and through her last illness, was patient and thoughtful for all.
Funeral services were conducted by Mr. Oren Orahood at the residence Saturday at 11 a.m., and the remains were tenderly laid to rest in the Dale Cemetery.
NOTE: Mary Jane Slatten is buried at Miriam Cemetery in Bethany. It is unknown if the obit was in error or if the body was later moved.
NOTE: John Wright Smith was the son of Vincent T. Smith and Sarah Emmaline Wright.
Met a tragic death either by his own hands or by foul play...coroner's jury unable to decide...still a mystery to all...funeral held Saturday.
Seth Stanley, a prominent citizen of this county, large landowner, and Bethany business man was taken from a well in his own marble shop, dead, last Thursday morning, March 10, after his unusual absence from his home all night.
His family gave the alarm early on Thursday morning that he had come to town as usual the evening before and had not returned, or communicated with them all night. The searchers went to his marble yard and found his Ford car parked across the street and his office door unlocked. Further investigation found his overcoat and cap on a chair, and the lid to the well covering open, and an examination found his body at the bottom of the well weighted down with a sack of sand tied with the well rope around his neck and when the body was raised out of about sixteen foot of water, it was seen that his hands were wired together, the right hand slipping out of the wire loop by the process of being taken from the well, but the wrists showed the marks of the wire having been securely fastened,. This fact caused the rescuing party to suspect foul play and the county coroner was notified and took charge of the body. A jury was impanelled and an autopsy held in their presence and after a number of witnesses were examined, rendered a verdict that he came to death by means unknown to them. Mr. Stanley was a character that his friends claim would not be one to committ suicide because of financial troubles. He was in good health and no known reason was given at the inquest why he would destroy himself. And on the other hand no one is suspected of foul play or nothing has developed that there would be a motive for any one to commit a crime like his tragic death.
On Monday the well was drained but revealed nothing that would throw any light on the mystery.
He visited different places of business during the evening, chatting as usual, and was last seen alive about 9 o'clock. About an hour later James Taylor in making his usual rounds tried the Stanley marble yard door and found it unlocked & going in, some one whom he recognized as Mr. Stanley's voice called to him from the rear of his shop, that he was there, and the night watch passed on his way.
This was 10 o'clock or after, the night watch says. The watch taken from Mr. Stanley's dead body having stopped at 9:45. The night watch might have been mistaken as to the time of his visit to the marble yard or the watch may have been stopped before it went into the well.
Wild rumors of cold-blooded murder have been advanced by persons not familiar with all the details, and before the coroners jury made their investigation, but so far nothing has developed that would conclusively show foul play. Most of his friends, which are numbered by the hundreds in Bethany and in his former home in the east part of the county accept the suicide theory, but are ready to consider & investigate anything that might look like murder.
Seth D. Stanley was born in Harrison County, Mo Jan 6 1870 and suddenly came to the end of his earthly life March 9 1921 aged 51 years, 2 months and 3 days. He was the son of John E. and Rebecca Stanley, and one of a family of eleven children. His parents were pioneers of Fox Creek township. He spent his boyhood on the old homestead together with his parents until his 23d year, when on December 13 1893 he was united in marriage to Nannie A. Higdon, a neighbor girl whom he had known since childhood. To this union were born four daughters, all of whom are living: Cora E. wife of Harley Maple, of Akron, Zula A. wife of Israel Chaney, of Melbourne, Eva R. and Grace of Bethany.
Besides his wife and children he leaves three grandchildren, one brother, M.E.Stanley of Wichita Ks., two sisters, Mrs. Ellen Griffin of Spickard Mo and Mrs. Hester Hudson of Gilman City, numerous other relatives, and many friends.
He was well known throughout the county, as an optomistic citizen, a friendly type of a man, four- square in all his relations with fellows.
He was a man of no great religious pretensions, but his every day life revealed a high type of Christian character.
His home life was ideal. A devoted lover of wife & children, impartial in his regard for relatives, congenial and affable to all his friends. He kept open house for all.
About twelve years ago together with his wife , he united with the Baptist Church at Mt. Pleasant No. 1, retaining his membership in that organization until his death.
Some time after his removal to Bethany he received the first degree of Free Masonry in Bethany Lodge No. 97 A.F. & A.M., and as soon there after as time would permit he became Worshipful Master of that lodge. At the time of his death he was High Priest of the chapter there, a Past Commander of the Knights Templars, a member of the Council and the Shrine at St. Joseph.
Together with his wife, he was prominent in the O.E.S.
He had been a member of the I.O.O.F. and Rebekah's for more than twenty years, and a member of the Knights of Pythias for many years.
Mr. Stanley was not only active in church & fraternal circles but in political and business as well.
It is hard for these to contemplate his mysterious departure, but they suffer not as those who have no hope.
His body will crumble into dust, but his soul and ours will live forever.
Seth D. Stanley, who so mysteriously came to death in his marble shop March 10 1921 was laid at rest in Sharon cemetery three miles south of Mt. Moriah Saturday March 12 1921. In writing this funeral account, it is not our intention to enter into an obituary, but just to give a brief analysis of the funeral proper. There was Scripture reading and prayer at the house at 9:30 a.m. by the Rev. W.O. Dotson and then the funeral cortege immediately started on its way to the place where the deceased had previously arranged that he should be buried beside the sacred dust of his parents.
The body was escorted by Bethany commandery No. 42, uniform following manner: Scripture reading and prayer by Dr. W.S. Welch, of the First Methodist Church, Bethany, and a synopsis of the life and character of the deceased was read by Rev. Floyd Morgan, of the First Methodist Church, of Rockport, Mo. The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev. W.O. Dotson of the First Baptist Church, Bethany. The song service was rendered by Mesdames Spencer and Prentiss and Messrs. Prentiss and Haas.
At the conclusion of the services in the church the massive casket was opened and the vast crowd filed past to take a last look at the features of their old friend and former neighbor. Many in the long line of march paused at the bier and heaved a sigh and often a tear drop was noticed glistening on the palid cheek of some old friend of him who lay so silently and cold in the beautiful casket, which was practically entombed in a labyrinth of choice flowers.
After the bereaved companion and daughters, with hearts almost bursting with grief, were persuaded to turn away, the casket was closed and the pall bearers slowly carried the mortal remains of their old friend to the grave passing between two lines of the uniformed commandry, who reverently stood with drawn swords.
At the grave the commandry took charge, and the beautiful and impressive Masonic funeral rites were read and amid the most profound and reverent silence, the massive casket encased in a steel vault, was lowered into the tomb, and the Rev. W.O. Dotson tenderly dismissed the solemn audience, who came from far and near to pay their last token of respect to that splendid citizen and four-square man, Seth D. Stanley.
The attendance at the church was so great that only a portion of the people could gain entrance into the building, there being fully as many on the outside as there were in the house. The floral gifts were the most elaborate we have seen in many years.
The subject of this sketch was born in Albany, N.Y., Sept 10, 1838 and was married to Morris H. Stanton, July 3, 1858. She and her husband moved to Harrison County, Mo., in 1859. She professed faith in Christ and joined the Christian church in the year 1867. At the time of death she held her membership at Mt. Olive church. She has ceased to be a member of the church [unreadable] and has joined the church triumphant, Feb. 4, 1904. Her husband, two sons and one daughter have preceded her, leaving one daughter and two sons and a host of friends to mourn her loss, but this loss is her eternal gain. Funeral services were held at the late residence by the writer, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Logsdon cemetery.
---- J. R. Williams
NOTE: The tombstone at Logsdon Cemetery gives the first name as "Serena".
The 1850 Census of Albany lists a "Serana" Blakeman, age 12, in the household of Simeon and Margaret Blakeman.
She had lived her entire life in Harrison County until the last three months when she was in the nursing home in Albany.
She was united in marriage April 8, 1902, to John V. Stewart. To this union three children were born: her son, Earl, her daughter, Effie, and a son, Ervin, who died in infancy.
She was converted and became a member of the Mt Olive Christian church, being baptized by Paul Mitchell on October 23, 1922, fifty-one years ago this month. She was a member of the Ridgeway Christian church at the time of her death.
She was preceded in death by her husband, a son-in-law, Joe Stanton, her parents, her seven brothers and sisters and one great-grandson, Jim Stewart.
She leaves to mourn her departure her son and wife, Mr and Mrs Earl Stewart of Ridgeway, her daughter and husband, Mr and Mrs Don Kirby of Eagleville, seven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a host of friends. She was always ready to welcome her children and grandchildren into her home and always enjoyed their company. She had accumulated a host of friends during her unusually long lifetime in this area.
Loving hands did all that was earthly possible, but the Lord released her from mortal trials by calling her to her eternal reward.
Final memorial services were conducted by Rev Paul Mitchell at the Boggess Chapel in Eagleville at 2:00 on Saturday, October 6. She was gently laid to rest in the Logsdon cemetery west of Brooklyn.
Early in life she united with the Christian Church and throughout her life was a loyal and consistant Christian, always being a regular attendant at church whenever possible. As a mother she had no superior, devoting her life unselfishly to her children. Her last thoughts were of the daughter who was seriously ill and unable to be at her bedside, both daughters being prevented from attending the funeral by illness. As a neighbor and friend she will be sadly missed even though she far exceeded her three score years and ten.
She was united in marriage to Charles S. Swift in Shelby County, Ia. Jan 15, 1879. To this union three children were born, namely: Mrs W. C. Ball, King City, Mo., Owen Lee Swift, near Hatfield, Mo., and Mrs Walter Nida, St Joseph, Mo.
Mr and Mrs Swift came to King City, Mo. in August, 1888. Her husband preceded her in death eleven years ago. She was a member of the King City Baptist church. Mrs Swift went to her son's home last November for a visit and on Jan 12, 1942, she had a stroke which left her bedfast. She will be sadly missed by her children and all who know her.
She leaves two brothers, Lee Margerum of Blackwell, Okla, and Richard Margerum of Drexel, Mo, also seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
The funeral was held Sunday at the Pentecostal church in Hatfield by Rev Jackson and burial in the Lincoln Center cemetery.
Those from a distance who attended the funeral were Mr and Mrs W. C. Ball, Mr and Mrs E. R. Ball and daughter,Velma, Clyde Swift, all of King City and Mr and Mrs Lee Franklin Swift and Mr and Mrs Walter Nida, St Joseph.
Funeral Services were held at 2:30 o'clock yesterday afternoon at the Wheeler funeral home, conducted by the Rev. Oris D. Hedges of Martinsville. Interment was in Miriam cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dr. J. G. E. Hinkle, Arthur King, Audrey Bowen, Ed Richardson, Floyd Frame and Charles S. Burg.
Mrs Switzer was born in Jacksonville, Ohio, January 29, 1857. She is survived by the following children: Dean and Wayne Switzer of Los Angeles, Calif., Mrs Myrtle Lanning of Iowa City, Iowa; Mrs Arthur King and Jerry Switzer of Kansas City; Mrs William Shields of Lewistown, Mont., and Mrs J. G. E. Hinkle and Glen and Earl Switzer of Bethany.
Mrms Switzer at one time operated a hotel at New Hampton and before that a rooming house in St Joseph.
Harry Switzer, 75, died Tuesday at a Bethany hospital following a brief illness. He was well known in Ridgeway where he had moved after retiring from farming southwest of Ridgeway.
Survivors include a brother, Ralph Switzer, Seaside, Oreg., four sisters, Mrs Cecil Miner, Kansas City, Mo., Mrs Edith Crossan, Rochester, Minn., Mrs Berniece Neff, Albany, Texas; and Mrs Leona Gage, Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday at the Ridgeway Methodist church, with the Rev. Hubert Lowes officiating. Burial will be in the Ridgeway cemetery.
The body is at the Boggess mortuary, Ridgeway.
He had been topping some turnips in the garden, while two boys, Victor L. Burgin and Leslie Gibson, played near. Seating himself in a chair in the garden, he asked the boys to shake some pears from a tree. This they began, but were called away. When Victor reached the home of his grandparents, Mr and Mrs Chet Partington, Mrs Martington asked who was sitting in the chair in the garden. Told it was Mr Switzer, she thought his attitude an unnatural one, and notified Miles Estep and A. R. Harrington of St Joseph, who was at the Estep home. They went to Mr Switzer and found him dead.
Mr Switzer was a pioneer music teacher, and at his funeral services Sunday afternoon at the Christian church, vocal music was by the Crawford male quartet of near Princeton, all his former pupils. They sang unaccompanied. The sermon was preached by the Rev E. P. Reed. Mrs H. C. Schoyer, Mrs Releigh Bartlett and Mrs W. M. Planck were flower bearers. Pallbearers were two sons, two sons-in-law and two grandsons - Gerald Switzer, Wayne Switzer, Dr. J. G. Hinkle, Arthur King, Laverne Hinkle, and Ross Lanning. Miss Eunice Lotz played the processional and recessional. Burial was at Miriam Cemetery.
For many years Mr Switzer was in the hotel business, and was so engaged at New Hampton for a long time. For 15 years he was a chior leader and Sunday school superintendent in one church.
Other than relatives, persons here to attend funeral services were Mr and Mrs W. N. Lindsey, Mrs Grace Todd, Ed Stapleton, and Mrs Ethel Rowland, all of Kansas City; Leroy Todd of St Joseph; Mr and Mrs Will Christian, Roy Hale and Hugh Hale, all of Atchison, Kan.; Mrs Fannie Carter, Mrs Florence Humphrey and Miss Cecil Carter, all of Pittsburg, Kan.; Mr and Mrs Roy Switzer, Mrs Eva McKee and son Max, Mr and Mrs Henry Green and son Lowell, all of Grand River, Iowa; Mr and Mrs George Crawford, Mr and Mrs Frank Crawford, Tom Crawford, Jim Dunn and Mr and Mrs Rarland, all of Princeton.
The funeral took place from the residence, Tuesday, March 1, at 2 o'clock, p.m., conducted by her pastor, Rev. S. Carothers, assisted by Rev. W. J. Willis and Mr. Oren Oraland, attended by a large company of relatives and friends, after which her body was laid to rest in Miriam Cemetery beside that of her late husband.
Mrs Effie Tilley, wife of Fred Tilley, and daughter of James Scott and wife, was born March 13, 1882 on a farm near Bridgeport, and died at her home near Mitchellville, Thursday morning at 9 o'clock, January 17, 1907, aged 24 years, 10 months and 4 days.
Funeral services were held at the Mitchellville church, Friday, January 18, at 2:30 pm, conducted by the pastor Rev. Smiley, after which services the remains were taken to the Burris cemetery, followed by a large procession of relatives and friends.
In the death of the departed, society has lost a valuable member and the church has lost an active worker, as she was always willing and ready to assist in music and Sunday school work. She was organist for a number of years at the Bridgeport church. Though young in years, she was well and favorably known by many with whom she had associated in church, Sunday school and the district school which she attended, where on all occasions her sunny disposition was shown. Her death has cast a gloom over the community. The sympathy of all friends has gone out to the young husband and infant, as well as to the many relatives. Her married life was short yet a very happy one. She leaves to mourn her loss: husband, an infant child, father, mother, five sisters and one brother, all of whom were present at the funeral, excepting two sisters, Mrs Mary Reed of Vernon county, Missouri, and Mrs Sadie Cox of Bates county, Missouri, who could not be present; one brother died when three years of age. Death coming so suddenly, yet realizing her situation, she bade her husband goodbye and calmly passed away. Though she has passed to the Great Beyond, her kind and happy disposition will never be forgotten.
signed: A Friend who has known her from childhood up
Florence Maddy-Walter
Florence, daughter of G. B. and Mrs. Lovina Maddy, was born Feb. 6, 1883 in Harrison County, Mo., where she also was reared. On March 2, 1904 she was married to Joseph D. Walter, to which union three children were born, but one of whom, Orville, aged three and one half years, now lives.
Mr. and Mrs. Walter made their home in Missouri for about three years, then came to Utica, Kan., in 1906 and had made the vicinity of Utica their home since that time.
At the age of eighteen Miss Florence confessed her faith in Christ and was buried with her Lord in baptism by O. E. Oatman, and had maintained that confession all these years, with a consistent Christian life. She transferred her membership to the Utica Christian church in May 1910. For more than two years Mrs. Walter had suffered with tuberculosis, but she fought bravely until the last.
Through all her suffereing the extent of which is unknown and unknowable, she was the very embodiment of patience and kindness, and what may be said of her in her girlhood days remained true to the end. To know her was to love her.
She died at Utica, Kansas on the morning of Jan. 2, 1912, aged 28 years, 10 months and 27 days, leaving husband and little son, also parents, one sister and three brothers, with a host of friends to miss her.
David R. Walton, late of Harrison County, Mo., and President of the County Minute Men, was born in Butler County, Ohio, on the 30th of March, 1818. He removed to Missouri in Sept, 1870, and died at his home in this county on the 18th of July, 1880.
At a meeting of the County Minute Men the following resolutions of respect were unanimously adopted:
First - That inasmuch as deceased was President of the Order, and that as a member of the same his character was unimpeachable, we by this act show to his sorrowing friends and relatives the respect we have for one whose character as a gentleman and a citizen was, in our estimation second to none.
Second - That we extend to the relatives of deceased our heartfelt sympathy in this, their hour of sorrow.
H. B. Christie
H. C. Tull
Joseph Whiteley
NOTE: David R. Walton was the son of John T. & Susan (Fox) Walton. He married Christina Walter in Montgomery County, Indiana on Oct 15, 1839. David Walton served in Co E of the 51st Illinois Infantry during the Civil War. David and Christina are buried at the Miriam Cemetery of Bethany (Harrison County).
A shadow of gloom and sadness passed over this community Tuesday morning June 3, when word came that Grandma Watson had just passed away.
Lucinda Watson was born June 27, 1824 in Brown County, Indiana. On January 6, 1842 she was married to Darius Watson. Eleven children were born to this union, two having preceded her to the great beyond. Those living are William H., Steven W., Mary A., Elizabeth J., Rachel E., Charity L., Amy A., Rebecca and Lavina B.
Mr. Watson died on July 22, 1872 in south Missouri where they lived at the time. About the year 1874, she with her children moved to Harrison County where she lived at the time of her death. She passed away at the home of her daughter, Elizabeth, at the age of 95 years, 11 months and 24 days.
Grandma Watson was possessed of a strong and loving heart. In spite of her age she so enjoyed the many birthday dinners that her friends would give her.
She will be sadly missed but we know she has gone to meet her God and where she will be free from intense suffering.
The remains were laid to rest in the Magee cemetery, June 4, where George Snipes spoke words of comfort to surviving ones.
Many beautiful floral offerings were sent by her many friends.
Charley was born at home in Ridgeway, MO on April 7, 1923, to Ina Vay (Finegan) and Jesse Whisler. "Charles Keith", as he was always known to his family, was the second of five children born to Ina, a school teacher, and Jesse, a mail carrier.
Charley graduated from Ridgeway High School in 1941, and attended the University of Missouri at Columbia for one and a half years before entering the Army in Feb 1943. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant on June 14, 1945. Following service in England, Germany and France, after the end of World War II he returned to and graduated from the University of Missouri in Feb 1948.
Charley married Dorothy Morrison on May 15, 1955, in Bowman, N.D., and they have lived in Rapid City since their marriage.
Whisler Bearing Company, founded by Charley in 1956, celebrated 50 years of business and Charley's "retirement" on Friday, June 23, 2006. Charley returned to work the following Monday, and continued to work until November of this past year. Under his leadership, during the years, Whisler Bearing opened stores in five locations.
During his more than 57 years in Rapid City, Charley was always active in serving his community through leadership in many civic organizations. Charley was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church, serving as a deacon, church moderator, Sunday School teacher, lay minister, and on various committees. His faith in Jesus Christ, unshakeable to the end, directed and defined his life.
For recreation Charley loved to snow ski, water ski, boat, and collect classic convertibles. For the past 16 years, Charley and Dorothy enjoyed winters in Lake Havasu City, Arizona in their motorhome. Last year, at age 82, Charley rode his waverunner on the Colorado River over 1,000 miles. Charley was outgoing and it can truly be said that "no matter where he went, he knew no strangers." Charley's optimistic and positive attitude, giving nature and willingness to always lend a hand in any situation, will continue to be an inspiration to all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Whisler, Rapid City; daughter, Barbara (Sebastian) Troia, of Omaha, Neb.; daughter, Janet (Michael) Williams, of Highlands Ranch, Colo.; son, Jeffrey Whisler, of Colorado Springs, Colo.; son, Brian (Jill) Whisler of Woodbury, Minn.; two brothers, Robert Whisler of Lincoln City, Ore., and James (Betty) Whisler of Conroe, Texas; sister, Betty Tanner of Willmar, Minn., and numerous nieces and nephews. Charley was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Kathryn Collier.
Services for Charley will be held at the First Baptist Church, 707 Patrick Street, Rapid City, Feb 28, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Ft Collins, Colorado.
When four years of age he removed with his parents to Tipton County, Indiana and there underwent the hardships of a pioneer life. He was raised by Christian parents, his father being one of the early preachers.
He was the sixth of a family of twelve children, seven of whom, with the father and mother, have preceded him to the spirit world. The youngest brother, Silas Whisler, of Leon, Iowa, was present at his death.
When seventeen years of age he united with the Christian Church and has ever since lived a devoted Christian life. He served his country in the Civil War, having enlisted when twenty-one years of age.
He was married to Mrs. Emeline Reynolds, September 5, 1871, to this union were born seven children, all of whom are living and were present at the funeral. All were at his bedside when he closed his eyes to earthly scenes, except the two oldest daughters, Mrs. Bertha Combs and Mrs. Olive Pontius of Howell County, Missouri, they having arrived a few hours after his death.
In 1875, he moved from Indiana to Decatur County, Iowa, where he resided for eighteen years and then moved to Harrison County, Missouri, where he resided until his death.
He has been a great sufferer for many years but has always born his afflictions with faith, courage and patience unfailing.
His was a quiet, humble, unobtrusive life-teaching more by example than by profession, yet his heart was ever flowing with charity. Being an affectionate husband, a loving father and an exemplary Christian, his loss is most keenly felt in home and community.
The funeral services were held at the house on Thursday at 10 a.m. The remains were then taken to the Ridgeway Cemetery and tenderly laid to rest.
On Monday and Wednesday, February 10 and 12, all that was mortal of Mrs. C. O. Whisler and two sons, Harland Ray and Joseph William Whisler, passed away and their gentle spirits took their flight to that higher world of which we know so little and which it seems so difficult to make real to mortal minds.
They had been suffering from the dreaded malady, influenza, and all that loving hands could do was done, but no medical skill could avail to check the hand of the destroyer.
Mrs. Whisler departed this life Monday at 2:30 p.m.; Ray passed away at 1:30 p.m., and Joseph at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Three more bright stars have disappeared from this earthly vision to beam with dazzling splendor of eternal rest. They will be missed, three chairs will be vacant that can not be occupied again.
To the father, husband and loved ones, we would say, your sky is hung by heavy black cloud curtains; your vision is overcast with the gloom of sorrow and every sound that strikes your ear has in it a cadence of despair. Without the presence of those loved ones that have gone before the world seems empty and cheerless to you, and in hour heart there is a dreary, dismal aching void. The consolation that is vouchsafed you is the realization of the fact that your loved ones are at peace, and that they have heard the words from the Father's lips, "Well done, thou good and faithful servants, enter thou into the joys of the Lord." Your consolation is found in the consideration of the fact that your dear ones are in heaven. The poor worn forms will nevermore be racked with agony and pain. Suffering is at an end, and it will be only a little while until you will cross the dark river and join your loved ones among the host of saved on that other shore, where the weary are at rest.
Some 1900 years ago, our Master and Lord said to the broken-hearted sisters of Lazarus: "I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me, tho he were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die," In a time like this we find comfort in these words. They are to us a bright light shining through the black cloud of death.
June Bertha Stoner Whisler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Stoner, was born in Harrison County, May 29, 1885, and died at her home northeast of Ridgeway, February 12, 1919, age 33 years, 8 months and 11 days. She was married to C. O. Whisler, March 29, 1903, and to this union four children were born - Joseph, Ray, Russel and Thelma.
Sister Whisler leaves a father, husband and two children, brothers and sisters, besides a host of relatives and friends to mourn her departure. She was a member of the Ridgeway Christian church and lived true to her faith.
Harland Ray Whisler, second son of Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Whisler, was born April 13, 1906, and died February 12, 1919. He leaves a father, sister, and brother, besides a host of relatives and friends to mourn their loss.
Joseph William Whisler, the eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Whisler, was born in Harrison County, Mo., March 27, 1904, and died February 12, 1919. Joseph also leaves his father, sister and brother to mourn his departure, besides a host of relatives and friends.
May the comfort wherewith we are all comforted of God be Brother Whisler's and the two surviving children, Russel and Thelma.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev A. L. Alexander, their pastor, at Ridgeway, and the remains were laid to rest in the beautiful Ridgeway Cemetery.
He had been employed in work unit offices of the Soil Conservation Service for approximately 20 years. He worked in the Bethany office several years before transferring to the office at Ellington, Mo.
Mr Whisler had been ill for several months and recently had been living on the farm home east of Ridgeway.
He is survived by his wife, Grace of the farm home; a daughter, Mrs Mary Elizabeth Kirby, Grandview, Mo,; two sons, Dale Whisler, Mt Moriah, and Timothy Whisler, Oregon, Mo.; two stepchildren, Mrs Delano St John, Lee's Summit, Mo., and Donald Corbin, Cherry Point, NC; his mother, Mrs Amy Whisler, Princeton; three sisters, Mrs Dorothy Peugh, Florida City, Fla., Mrs Verea Stoner, Ridgeway, and Mrs Shirley Barritt, Princeton; three brothers, Virgil Whisler, Rantool, Ill., Vernon Whisler, St Joseph,and Russell Whisler, Trenton; and 12 grandchildren.
Services will be at 1 p.m. Friday at Stoklasa chapel in Cainsville, with the Rev James Schuby officiating. Burial will be in Ridgeway Cemetery. The body is at Stoklasa mortuary at Cainsville.
Vernon worked for the University of Missouri Extension Division as a Farm Management Specialist and County Agent for 11 years. He started in the banking business in 1962 at Farmers State Bank, Princeton, Missouri. From 1965-1978 he was the Senior Vice President of Agricultural Lending for the American National Bank in St Joseph, Mo., which covered four states; MO., IA., KS, and Nebraska. In 1978 he served as President of the Chillicothe State Bank. From 1979-1985 he was President of the Lamoni State Bank, and from 1983-1985 he was President of the Citizens Bank of Winigan, Missouri.
In addition, Vernon served on several agricultural committees and advisory councils and taught agricultural credit for the Missouri Bankers Agricultural Credit School and for the American Institute of Banking.
Vernon retired in 1985 and served on the Board of Directors for eleven years in northwest Missouri area banks and served as trustee of the Jackson Memorial Community Trust. During retirement Vernon also researched the family genealogy, rebuilt antique telephones, collected carnival glass, traveled and spent time with his family.
Vernon was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Mildred; his parents, Arthur and Amy Whisler, and 6 brothers and sisters: Stewart, Dorothy, Verea, Shirley, Virgil and Russell. Vernon is survived by his two children, Richard (Sandy) Whisler of Lake Mills, Wisconsin; and Peggy Fridell of Higginsville, Mo.; 7 grandchildren, Amanda Whisler, Tyler Vandezande, Laura (Richard) Beddingfield, Nathan Bokay, Mara (Kyle) Pierce, Jonathan Bokay, and Sam Whisler; and one great-grandchild, Logan Vandezande.
A memorial service for Vernon Whisler was held at the Ridgeway Methodist Church in Ridgeway, Missouri on Saturday, September 5, 2009.
Z. Mitchell
He was a beloved husband of 65 years to Dorothy, cherished father to Philip and Elizabeth, adored granddad to Brandee, Garrett, Natalie and Marshall, respected brother to Lela Wave (deceased), Aileen, Bonnie, Mary, Jerry and Boyd (deceased), admired father-in-law to Kathy, and revered brother-in-law to Doris.
Born on Nov 15, 1916 to Bess and Roy White in Blythedale, Mo. He graduated from high school a year early through his love and dedication for learning, which he continued throughout his life.
He started White Auto Supply in 1935 with his parents and continued this entrepreneurial endeaver for 50 years, resulting in eight locations and a wholesale distributorship, Lincoln Sales Company.
Maurice served his country proudly as a Navigator in the Army Air Corp in World War II. He was a prisoner of war for 13 months in Germany. Maurice had incredible character and led a life of dignity and harmony. He loved to laugh and had a quick wit and dry sense of humor which lives on in those around him. He is sadly missed, greatly admired and will always be remembered and loved by his family.
Funeral services were Monday, Jan 16, 2006 at the Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, Mo. Burial with military rites was at the Miriam Cemetery, Bethany, Missouri. Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross in care of the Roberson Funeral Home of Bethany.
Deceased was born in St Lawrence County, NY in 1830, and was married to Charlotte A. Freeman of Wollcott, Wayne County, NY., August 18, 1850 and moved from New York to McClain County, Illinois in 1857, and after residing there 18 months came to Harrison county, Mo., where he had since resided, except the time he was in the army, until the time of his death.
A. A. Williams enlisted in Co G, 6th Regt., in 1862 and served until the close of the war. His record was "a good and true soldier, always ready for duty," and he was much esteemed by his comrades. He was a member of T. D. Neal Post No 121, G.A.R. in which he held official positions, and was a Past Post Commander at the time of his death.
Mr. Williams was a good citizen and was always found on the moral side of all questions, affecting the welfare of the community in which he lived. He was one of the Justices of the Peace of Bethany township for many years and was an alderman of the City of Bethany at the time of his death. In all of his official relations, he was always held in high esteem by those with whom he associated, and was ever recognized as a moral, honest and upright citizen.
He was the father of nine children, four of whom with his beloved wife, survive him and were at his bedside at the time of his death. His children now living are Mrs. Dora E. Small of Fairfax, Mo., L. E. Williams of Bethany, Mo., Mrs. Effie Noll of Gilman, Mo., and A. A. Williams, Jr., also of Gilman.
Funeral services were held at his late residence Friday, February 26, 1904, conducted by Rev. W. F. Kennedy of Gilman, assisted by the members of the Post of which he was a member, who conducted the services in a very impressive manner at Miriam Cemetery, where his body was laid to rest, to await the Resurrection Morn.
Truly a good citizen, neighbor and friend has gone, and he will be missed by his comrades and friends, but most of all by his aged wife who has been in feeble health for years, and whom he so tenderly cared for.
The widow and children have the sympathy of the community, friends and all who knew him.
J. W. K.
Mr Wooderson died on the farm where he was born. A son of Mr and Mrs James Wooderson, he was a member of a family old in Harrison county, and himself was widely known.
Surviving in his immediate family are his wife, Mrs Lesta Wooderson, a daughter, Mrs Owen VanVelkinburg, St Joseph, and two sons, Reed Wooderson, Des Moines, Ia., and Ward Wooderson, Mt Moriah.
Funeral services were Monday afternoon at Sharon chapel, the Rev Harlie Power of Mt Moriah officiating. Burial was at Sharon chapel cemetery. Pallbearers, his nephews, were Joseph Dill, Gerald Arney, Clell Wooderson, Carl Wooderson, Earl Wooderson and Ray Wooderson.
The life of her home circle was an unusually long and happy one; but like all things earthly, that circle had to be broken.
Her father was the first to enter the Great Beyond, August 20, 1899; her mother joined him June 27, 1925. They were followed by Charlie, Sept 25, 1926; Eliza, on Thanksgiving day, 1934; George, April 28, 1936; and Albert, March 11, 1937. Now, Alice, on July 17, 1939, has added one more to that growing circle beyond, leaving Jennie of Bethany, Edward of Spickard, and Frank of Mt Moriah to finish their work on the shore of time.
She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, many cousins, one precious aunt - Mrs Larkin Wooderson of Mt Moriah - and many, many friends.
The life of Alice Wooderson needs no eulogy among the people who have known her through the years. That life is an open book the pages of which it is a joy to scan, filled as they are with beautiful memories. She was of a strong religious nature, having embraced Christianity at the age of 16 years. Unwavering and steadfast from that time on she has been a true soldier of "The Old Rugged Cross" of which we sing. She wouldn't like to be called a "model Christian." Not at all. Yet, to many folk she was just that. Again and again has the writer heard it remarked, "I would like to be a Christian if I could be of the type exemplified by Alice Wooderson." This in substance, if not the exact wording. Who can ever forget the power of her beautiful prayers, or the moving sincerity of her testimony in the little church she loved so well! That voice is stilled forever, but the eloquence of it will live on while memory lasts. Given but one word by which to describe ther character of Alice Wooderson, the writer would choose the word: DEVOTION. Devotion to the cause of the Christ she loved with her whole heart; devotion to the interests and welfare of the different members of her family; her untiring devotion to her aged mother stands out in shining gold, even to this day.
There was nothing sluggish in her nature. She was always up and doing. Always ready and anxious to serve the needs of those about her.
Strange to the human understanding it is, that one so noble, one so imbued with good will as was Alice Wooderson, should be called upon to suffer an affliction, the consciousness of which would have been unbearable; that her beautiful mind, "like sweet bells jangled out of tune," would refuse to serve her in the tasks she loved so well to do; that she, in turn, must receive the devotion it had been her wont to give. But she was spared the pain of this consiousness, and never realized the care and devotion that has been given her by her faithful sister and husband, Mr and Mrs Emmett Sallee, and her niece and husband, Mr and Mrs Claude McQuerry, in whose home she has lived in recent years.
Three weeks ago she was taken to the state hospital at St Joseph, in the hope that change would prove beneficial. But that was not to be. On Friday, the 14th, she was taken worse and passed away on Monday morning.
We must not grieve. It is as she, herself, would have it. Rather, should we rejoice that she has found newness of life in a world where mortal affliction can not touch her. A world where, some day, that old home circle will be complete and unbroken.
Funeral rites were held at Sharon chapel July 18. The Rev William Pollock delivered a fitting and beautiful sermon, his theme being "The Webb of Life." He compared it with the fabric of the weaver's loom, which by use of shuttle and threads, patterns are woven, the beauty of which can be seen, only, when it is complete and viewed on the reverse side. As a text he used Gal. 7-22 and part of 23: "But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance." These he said, were the threads she had richly used in weaving a pattern of life, beautiful on both sides. A pattern ever to be prized as an inspriation along life's pathway.
Her favorite songs, "Rock of Ages", "In The Garden", "Going Down The Valley", "The Home of the Soul". were rendered by Mrs Lola Ingham, Helen Parker, Hennie Fordyce, Pearl Thomas, Jay Thomas, Robert Ballard, Duwayne Parker, all of Prairie Chapel, assisted by S. M. Haas.
Lovely floral offerings were borne by Mildred Nickerson, Marylin Nickerson, Mary Belle Propst, Olive Elaine Sanders, Wyvonne Sanders and Carol Elaine Price.
Her little body was carried to the last resting place by Dr Cecil Propst, Walter Dowell, Clayton Nickerson, Claude McQuarry, Jesse Sanders and Clifford Wiley.
There, in sight of the place where she first opened her eyes on this world, beside her father and mother, close by the church that knew her well, she was tenderly given back to earth.
In 1859, when she was two years old, her family moved from Michigan to Harrison county, Missouri, settling near Mt Moriah which continued to be her home for more than 85 years.
Her immediate family consisted of four daughters, Mary, Matilda, Mariah and Malinda; and one son, Abner, who died in early childhood. Her three sisters preceded her in death by many years, and of her husband's large family, she is the last to go.
While she remained with us the older generation seemed never quite gone. Her splendid memory and her radiant recollections kept it ever near. How we loved to hear her descriptions of past events! So vivid, so glowing - the years seemed, almost, to live over again! Now that she, too, has crossed over, the golden link is broken. She took with her something we can't define. There is a lonesomeness we definitely feel, but can not describe. And even a generation of upwards of a century seems but a short time.
Borne in upon us are Whittier's lines: "Our Father's God, from out whose hands the centuries fall like grains of sand."
And again, Carlyle's words: "In a little while we will all be there, and our mother's bosom will screen us all."
Yes, Aunt Mariah's passing marks the passing of a generation. They are all gone now; all gone. Looking to the Silent Shore "no voice is heard, no sign is made, no step is on the conscious floor." yet, they have left behind them a trail of light to guide our feet as we follow on.
On Aug 27, 1873, she was married to Larkin Adamson Wooderson. On a farm in the northwest corner of Fox Creek township they established their home where they reared a family of nine children - four daughters and five sons, all of whom are living. The daughters are Mrs Ida Downey, Mt Moriah; Mrs Matilda Shaw, Osceola, Iowa; Mrs Alma Planck, Ridgeway; Mrs Birtie Fitzpatrick, Leon, Iowa. The sons are Thomas J., Mt Moriah; Ira, State hospital, Kie Building, Ark., Lee H., Mill Grove; Alvah, Ridgeway; Delbert, Cuero, Texas. There are 28 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In service are three grandsons, Delbert and Harley, overseas, and Cecil; all sons of Alvah and Cleo Wooderson. Also in service are five great-grandsons; Ray and Herman, sons of Earl and Eva Provins; Russell and Harold, sons of Art and Elsie Wright; Garvin, son of Verda Gillespie. Our dear Darryl, whose life was lost in service overseas, was her great-nephew, son of Bert and Flossie Wooderson. The late lovable Vilas Downey was her grandson, son of John and Ida Downey. Leith Stevens, in service overseas, is her great-nephew, son of Andrew and Bessie Stevens. So, comes to a close a full and complete life which, through her large family, has contributed nobly to our country's very life.
How she longed for the end of this war! Can we not take comfort that God has lifted her from the heartache and the sorrow of it all? Freed her from the suffering that pressed so heavily upon her?
She had every kindness that could possibly be given. No babe in arms could have had more loving, tender and constant care than Aunt Mariah's. She said, "They are just as good to me as they can be. There is nothing they wouldn't do." She spoke of the visits of her pastor and his good wife, the Rev and Mrs W. W. Whyte; of their sessions of prayer together. Her mind was at peace. She said, "I am ready and waiting to go."
Funeral services, held at Sharon chapel Sunday, Oct 29, at 2:00 p.m., were conducted by the Rev W. W. Whyte, who spoke from Rev 21-2. The loads of beautiful flowers were borne by Verda Gillespie, Edith Scott, Iris Spence, Marjorie Martin, Maude Gay, Doris Weathers, Lois Phillips, Florence Wooderson, and Marjorie Wooderson. Burial was at Sharon cemetery. Her precious body was carried to its last resting place and laid beside that of her husband, who preceded her in death by 31 years, by Ted Gay, Garvin Weathers, Virgil Hamilton, Dean Scott, Max Wooderson and Russell Wooderson.
Rosetta May, daughter of Hiram and Mary Stanley, was born in Mercer County, Missouri May 23, 1875.
Her father having died in her early girlhood, her mother, left with three young children of whom she was the eldest, was later united in marriage with John W. Wooderson and came to the Sharon community where Rosetta has lived through the intervening years.
On January 11, 1899 she was united in marriage with Thomas J. Wooderson, eldest son of Larkin and Marta Wooderson. To them were born three sons: Walter, Alton, and Russell.
A short time ago she was taken with a stomach ailment which did not appear serious, but later pneumonia developed and though all possible was done to save her, death on swift wings carried her away on the morning of January 16, leaving the whole community shocked with grief.
Not one among us could be more sorely missed. 'What shall we do now?' How can we carry on the Farm Club without Rosetta?' ...these are questions her neighbors and fellow club members ask each other.
The story of her life can not be written, nor spoken in words. For in lay in the sweet spirit of helpfulness in which she walked among us, always doing good where ever her capable hands found need. In sickness, in death, in every kind of sorrow or trouble, in the social neighborhood gatherings - always there was need for the help she was ever ready and willing to give. In her home life she was devotion herself. Here she poured out the full measure of her strength for those she loved.
In early life she was converted and joined the church at Sharon Chapel. Through the years her life was consistent in the practice of Christian virtue in humility and self-effacement.
She is survived by her husband, her son Walter and wife Burnese of Kirksville, Alton of the home, Russell and wife Florence of near Mt Moriah; two granddaughters, Rosemary and Colleen, daughters of Walter and Burness; mother-in-law Mrs. Maria Wooderson; brother, Oscar and wife Mary and daughters, Osawatomie, Kansas; Mrs. Anna Middleton of Gilman City; aunt Mrs. Nancy Stanley and daughter of Princeton; step-sisters Mrs. Henry Delf of Hunter, N.D. and Mrs. E. W. Lamb; other relatives whose names are not available and a host of friends whose hearts are one in this sorrowing hour - first in thought for the bereaved family, and then for their own loss in the death of this precious woman. So much a part of the life around her, she was so necessary a part of that life, it is hard to realize that she will be seen no more in the old places she used to fill. But we know that she is gone.
Funeral services were held at Sharon Chapel at 2:00 p.m. January 19, conducted by the Rev. Hartie Power who spoke from the text: 'For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands in the heavens.'
The songs, 'Going Down the Valley', 'In the Garden' and 'No Disappointment In Heaven' were sung by Mrs. Cole Rhea, Miss Docia Harper and Ed Norton. Flower girls were Misses Mildred and Dorothy Wooderson, Mrs. Irene (Wiley) Foster, Mrs. Grace McMillen and Mrs. Elsie McQuerry. Interment was in the Sharon churchyard cemetery.
Those attending from a distance were Mrms. Thomas Shaw, Osceola, IA, Mrs. Jincy Dyer, Osceola, IA, Mrms. John Downey, Odell, Ia, Mrms. Wilfred Fitzpatrick and daughter of near Osceola, IA, Mrms. Oscar Stanley and daughter, Osawatomie, Kans, Mrms. James Russell and sons, Osawatomie, Kan, Mrms. William Middleton, Filman City, Mrms. Bert Sires and Mr. Taft and son and daughter of Princeton.
Mrs. E. W. Lamb
Card of Thanks
We thank every one who gave us assistance and comfort
during the sickness and at the death of our wife and mother.
Also for the beautiful flora offerings
Thomas J. Wooderson
Alton Wooderson
Mrms. Walter Wooderson
Mrms. Russell Wooderson
He was preceded in death by his father, mother and three sisters.
On September 4, 1940, he was united in marriage to Maud Hall and to this union two sons were born, Gary and Lonnie. Survivors are his wife, Maud, and two sons, a daughter-in-law, Connie; four grandchildren, Brian, Tammie, Stacy Lonnette and David, which he loved very dearly; three sisters, Mrs. May McLain, Mt. Moriah, MO, Alma Little, Rapid City, SD, Blanch Souders, Jamesport, MO; two brothers, Amos of Everest, KS and Art of Bethany, MO; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. He became a member of the Mt. Moriah Methodist Church early in his life.
To know Bunt was to love him He was of a kind, generous nature. He was happiest when he had his family and friends with him. He was a patient sufferer and truly appreciated every kindness given him. He was a good husband, father and neighbor, always willing to lend a hand.
Funeral services were held at Stoklasa Funeral Home Monday, March 3 at 2 p.m. A large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends paid their respects to his memory. They received comfort from a sermon by Rev. Max Haggard.
Burial was in Lloyd Cemetery in Mt. Moriah, MO. Songs were by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Dinsmore, Mrs. Dale Hamilton accompanied them.
Pallbearers were Kenneth Hamilton, Floyd Marsh, Philip Preston, Carl Foster, Kenneth Rice and James Robertson.
Note: The pallbearers were all coworkers from the Mo. State Highway Dept.
Died, April 23rd, 1893, Mary May Youngs, aged 18 years, 4 months and 23 days. She was the only daughter of Sarah and John Youngs. May was the star of the home, always a kind and loving child. Her teachers and school-mates loved her very dearly, she was so thoughtful of them and unselfish. She leaves a father, mother, 3 brothers, and a host of friends to mourn her loss, but our loss is her eternal gain. She has been ailing for some time but only bed-fast for a short time and bore her sufferings patiently. Ah! little did we think the last time we saw her we would be called on to perform these last sad rites. She was laid to rest in the Hatten graveyard Monday, April 24th. Kind parents and loved ones, let us pause and think, "We are all standing on the brink of eternity. Are we ready?"
After a long illness of consumption, Mrs. Edna York-Zerbe, wife of Len A. Zerbe, died at her home in this city, just as the old year was passing away, Sunday night, Dec 31, 1911. She was born in Harrison County Sept 12, 1887, and was aged at the time of her death 24 years, 3 months and 19 days. She was converted at Martinsville, MO., during the winter of 1901 and united with the Christian church, of which she remained a faithful member until death.
She was married to L. A. Zerbe Jan. 23, 1909, since which time they have made their home in Bethany.
Mrs. Zerbe was naturally of a sunny, hopeful disposition and the cheerful fortitude with which she bore her sufferings, was often remarked upon by those who were acquainted with the conditions. She was a lover of music and though realizing her condition, was ever cheerful, and she loved to have the home brightened by music. She was a true unselfish wife, daughter and sister. She is survived by her husband, father, three brothers and two sisters, who have the sympathy of all our people in their loss.
Funeral services were held from the residence, Bethany, Tuesday afternoon, Jan 2, at 2:30 o'clock, conducted by Rev. John Young, and the remains laid to rest in Miriam Cemetery.
Mrs. Zweimller was born November 14, 1901 in Mercer County. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Kansas City Chapter, and Friendly Assemly of God Church, Kansas City.
She leaves two brothers, Noel McLain, Cainsville; Ted McLain, Blythedale; two sisters, Roma Butler, Laurie, MO and Marguerite Cordle, Kansas City, and several neices and nephews.
Funeral services were Monday May 15 at Stoklasas Memorial Chapel, Cainsville, with Rev. J. Ernest Radford officiating. Burial was at Zoar Cemetery, Cainsville.