Vincent DeLay

DELAY, BRISTOL

Posted By: Alice Daniels (email)
Date: 9/14/2013 at 15:16:19

Centerville Citizen
December 28, 1887

OBITUARY
Vincent DeLay died of paralysis at his home near Centerville, Appanoose county Iowa, Nov, 14th, 1887, aged 80 years. He was born in Ross county, Ohio, Feb 9th, 1807. He was of a family
of twelve sons, all of whom preceded him to the grave except two. His ancestors were of French descent and came to America in a very early day. He was a son of the Rev. Jacob DeLay
of precious memory who attended the first Methodist Conference that was ever held in
Ohio, being at the town of Marietta. He was also one of the pioneer preachers who laid the foundation of our loved church, deep and broad, in the borders of this country.
The subject of this memoir joined the M. E. church and was truly converted at his father's home when young. Not long since, the writer of this, heard him say in social meeting that for near sixty years he had been in the christian warfare and it had not grown old. His wish was, by the grace of God that his last days might be his best. For some weeks prior to his death, he felt that his time on earth was nearing a close, but he said, "let it come sooner or later. All is right, all is right." Among his last words were, "Jesus is near, all is peace and joy."
He was indeed one of natures true noblemen, always kind, pleasant and benevolent and ready with a good word to all. He was always regular in his attendance at church; he was a good
singer, and for a great many years was the leader in vocal music. He loved to talk on scientific and religious matters, his beliefs on these subjects were of an ennobling and elevating character. During his long connection with the M. E. church, he held responsible positions, which he took great interest to accomplish. His house was for many years the ministers home. Though a farmer his life, yet by earnest thought and reading during his leisure hours he had acquired a good amount of general information. He took a great interest in republican principals and the rights of his country.
He was married Nov. 20th, 1834 to Miss Teresa Bristol of Pike county, Ohio, and with her moved to his home in Jackson county of the same state, where they lived happily till 1854, when they moved to this place. She died ten years previous, with the blissful hope that reaches beyond the grave. They both rest side by side in the cemetery near Walnut City. They had three children, two of whom still live to mourn their loss. But we must be resigned.
The heavenly Father knows best. Let us rest in the pleasing thought that he fought a fight he kept the faith, and henceforth there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness, and that they will be waiting and watch ing at the beautiful gate for us.
C. D. M.

Note: buried at Elgin Cemetery, Mystic, Appanoose County, Iowa.