Lillie Thomas 1865-1930

THOMAS, ARMSTRONG, ELLYSON, CARTER, HOLLINGSWORTH, WILKINS

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 1/25/2018 at 08:13:28

17 April 1930 - West Branch Times

Lillie Armstrong was born on Jan. 3, 1865, and was one of eight children born into the home of Israel and Sina Armstrong, who at that time were residents of West Branch. For a number of years she made her home with an uncle and aunt and attended school at Geneseo, Ill., and taught school later for several terms at Yankee Corners.

In 1890 she became the wife of Frank Ellyson, who came to his death by accident in 1920. Two foster children received their love and care, and these two will remember the kindly presence which shed love and devotion in their lives.

These children are Olive Carter and Arden Ellyson, both of Pasadena, Calif. Mrs. Ellyson became Mrs. Peter Thomas in 1923, and for seven years the new home had been one of happiness. Our sister had a definite religious experience. She loved the Lord and the things which belonged to the church always found an affectionate interest in her.

Raised among Quaker stock, the early part of her girlhood and womanhood was spent in that church, but later in life she became a member of the Methodist church here at West Branch, and one of our most highly prized women. For a number of years she has been the untiring president of the Ladies Aid, and largely due to her leadership the society was able to pledge a large amount towards the remodeling of the church, and to pay it most readily. She was always cheerful and encouraging, and many there are among us, both in and outside of the church who will miss her cheery smile, and ready help.

Besides her husband, Peter Thomas, her children, Olive and Arden, the following sisters and brothers survive her: Anna Hollingsworth, Mattie Armstrong, Ella Wilkins, all of West Liberty; Charles Armstrong of Davenport; Dawsey of Wisconsin; Allison of Ohio and Will and Russell of California.

Mrs. Thomas' death occurred at the Pasadena Hospital, Pasadena, Calif., Saturday afternoon, April 5th, as a result of an accident, Friday, March 21st, when she and her husband were struck by an automobile as they crossed the street in that city.

Her remains arrived at West Liberty, Saturday morning, accompanied by Mr. Thomas, who was also severely injured by the accident, but was able to make the homeward journey; and by her two foster children, Mrs. R. L. Carter and Arden Ellyson. They came at once to her home at West Branch.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon, at the Methodist church. The Rev. Harry D. Green officiated, and Mrs. Charles Thompson sang two numbers.

Burial was made in the West Branch cemetery.