Jacob B. Smith 1864-1921

SMITH

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 6/21/2024 at 22:49:10

Jacob B. Smith
(September 18, 1864 – May 6, 1921)

Prominent Calhoun Man Is A Suicide
Jacob B. Smith, a prominent citizen of Lake City, took his own life by hanging himself in the barn loft at his home in Lake City last Friday morning. When her husband did not come home at noon, Mrs. Smith made a search for him and found his lifeless body hanging in the barn loft. The coroner was notified immediately and the body removed to the home. Mr. Smith’s act is attributed to despondency, caused by ill health. He had been in poor health for several months and had become very despondent. For a time, he took treatments at a sanitarium in Kansas City, but his health was not greatly improved. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon from his home. The service was in charge of the Masons, Rev. C. L. McKim, pastor of the Church of Christ, officiating. There was music by a male quartette. Interment in the Lake City Cemetery. Mr. Smith was born near Elgin, Fayette County, Iowa on September 18, 1864. In 1869 while the family was making preparations to come to Calhoun County, the father died. Some weeks later, the mother and children came to Lake City, where the mother purchased a section of land in Elm Grove Township. Mr. Smith received his education in the country schools. On February 28, 1892, Mr. Smith was married to Alice Gilnet. To them were born four children, Earle, Ralph, Harley and May. In addition to his wife and children, deceased is also survived by six brothers. They are F. W. Smith and J. L. Smith of Lake City, John Smith of Wyoming, Joseph Smith of Ida Grove, Richard Smith of Oregon and Edward Smith of Rockwell City. Mr. Smith was a member of Zerubbabel lodge No. 240, A. F. & A. M, Cypress Chapter No. 99, H. A. M., and I. O. O. F. lodge, all of Lake City, He was a good father and husband, an honorable citizen and was well liked by all who knew him. He was school director of the city schools for a number of years and was an ardent supporter of all educational interests. He was interested in all things that had to do with the progress and welfare of his community and he cooperated heartily in plans for the public good. He was a candidate for county treasurer on the democratic ticket at the last general election. Source – Rockwell City Advocate, Rockwell City, Iowa, Thursday, May 12, 1921, p.1