Mary O'Donnell 1839-1925

ODONNELL, HOLLAND

Posted By: Georgea Clinton (email)
Date: 4/10/2011 at 12:39:05

Mar 25, 1925 - Carroll Herald - Mrs. Mary O'Donnell, one of the pioneers of Carroll county, died at her home on Carroll street Sunday at the ripe old age of 86 years. The deceased had been in poor health for years, but was able to be about the house until last November when she began to fail, and passed gracefully away Sunday evening. Death was due to her advanced age.

Mary Holland was born February 2nd, 1839, in County Cork, Ireland, and came to America at the age of three with her parents, living for a time in Rhode Island, from thence moving to Illinois, twelve years later. She was married to John O'Donnell at Freeport, Illinois, and came to Iowa May 18, 1875, settling on a farm at Maple River. Fourteen years ago Mrs. O'Donnell moved to the home on Carroll street, where she was tenderly cared for by her daughter, Miss Nellie.

Mr. and Mrs. O'Donnell were among the pioneers of Carroll county, and last Wednesday was the 50th anniversary of their advent into the county. She has been a member of St. Joseph parish most of her life, having been one of the charter members, and was faithful and devout in all the duties of the church. On February 2nd, she celebrated her 86th birthday, and all her children were home for the happy event.

Eleven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. O'Donnell, and three with their father have passed away. Those left to mourn a mother's loss are Michael of Boone; John of Mitchell, South Dakota; Terrence of Kansas City, Missouri; James C. and George of Carroll; Thomas B. of Anthon; Edward J. of Sioux City; and Miss Nellie at home, all of whom have been called here by her death. The funeral will be held at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning at St. Joseph's church, and will be conducted by Rev. Father Stephen Butler and she will be laid to rest in the parish cemetery.