PURDY, Delia (Delavan) 1820-1876

PURDY, DELAVAN

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 1/2/2024 at 17:39:51

Died, at her residence, in this city, on Saturday morning, April 1st, at 2:30 o'clock, Mrs. Delia Delavan Purdy, aged 56 years.

The subject of the above obituary was born in the city of New York, in 1820. Her lineal ancestors were among that devoted band of Christians known as "French Huguenots," who fled from their persecutors to American, whereby they might enjoy religious freedom and worship God according to the dictates of their consciences.

Her grandfather had several brothers all known to Revolutionary fame. Benjamin Delavan, a great uncle, was surgeon in the regular army; Edward C. Delavan, of Albany, a cousin, was an invited guest and was present at the coronation of Queen Victoria, of England.

Her parents dying when she was quite young, her rearing to womanhood and education devolved upon her uncle and aunt, then residing at North Salem, Weschester Co., N.Y.

She was married to A.W. Purdy, at Fishkill, on the Hudson, and soon after removed west to Quincy, Ill. Residing a short time at Carthage, Rock Island, Galena, and in the spring of 1852 located permanently at Lansing.

Shortly after her arrival here her daughter Cornelia sickened and died, and there now remain four sons and one daughter, to cherish her memory, for the moral training and Christian example of a sainted mother.

In recording the decease of this estimable woman we can truly say, that a mother has been taken away from "our Israel," - indeed society at large has sustained no common loss by her removal. She in early life united with the Presbyterian Church and up to the time of her death was a faithful and devoted member, living a life of humility, self denial and holy circumspection.

Her amiable temper and her affectionate and affable manners endeared her to a large circle of friends and acquaintances, both young and old, who sought her company for the instruction and pleasure it afforded them. To those under affliction she was a tender, sympathizing friend, never forgetting the poor and needy, and always ready to alleviate their distress.

Her daily walk through life afforded a bright example of the Christian virtues, ever acknowledging her unshaken faith in her Redeemer, as the rock, hope and strength of her salvation. Thus suddenly taken away she peacefully and calmly departed to that everlasting rest, prepared for those who walk in wisdom's way. In consigning the body to the tomb from that peaceful resting place spring none but fond regrets and tender recollections.

A heart-stricken husband and affectionate children, together with a large concourse of sympathizing friends mourn her loss.

Having known the deceased for nearly a quarter of a century we take pleasure in bearing testimony to her moral worth and standing in this community. Hoping the bright example of the practice of Christian virtues she has left many be followed by all who wish the same joyful assurance of never-ending happiness. When such friends part, " 'tis the survivors die." T.

~North Iowa Journal, Wednesday, April 5, 1876; pg 3

Notes: wife of Amos W. Purdy (died 1892), she's buried in Oak Hill cemetery