Sarah Bement Ford

BEMENT, FORD, GRAHAM, AMES, DARBY

Posted By: Lynda Ozinga (email)
Date: 4/24/2002 at 17:41:42

The Clarksville Star - Obituaries - March 16, 1889:

"Died at her home in Clarksville, Iowa, at 5:30 A.M. March 16, 1889, Sarah E. Ford. Sarah E. Bement was born in Skaneatelas, Onondaga Co, New York, Sept 8, 1850, and came to Clarksville in 1868. She was married Aug 13, 1885 to Charles S. Ford of this place. In April, 1869, Rev George Graham, then superintendent of the schools of Butler Co, granted her first certificate and she commenced a long and successful career as teacher in the schools of this county. Some of her work was in the country, but a great portion of her time was devoted as instructor in the schools of Clarksville, every department having been in her charge at some time. Long physical and mental strain proved more than nature could bear, and her first term as a principal proved her last as teacher, her life going out with that of the term. Two weeks of sickness and pain, and her busy energetic life was ended. True to her friends, prominent in social circles and fondly devoted to those near and dear to her, her place can never be refilled. May the good she has done on earth serve as a guide for others to follow. The funeral services were held at the Methodist church, Sunday afternoon, March 17th. Rev. George Grahams remarks were appropriate and to the point. The floral emblems on the coffin, a pillow, a cross and crown, and harp, were placed there by pupils of the deceased, the Knights of Cynthia, and Miss Kate Ames, respectively, and were extremely beautiful and fitting emblems. The attendance at the funeral was very large. The deceased leaves a husband, mother, sister (Mrs. Thomas D. Darby), and two brothers, Will and Ed Bement, all residents of this place except the latter who lives in St. Paul Minnesota."