Joseph Rich 1888-1904

RICH

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 1/2/2019 at 09:18:56

10 March 1904 - West Branch Times

Joseph Floyd, third son of I. N. and E. J. Rich, was born Sept. 17, 1888, at Templeton, S.D.; died of pneumonia, Feb. 28, 1904, at Hubbard, Iowa, being 15 years, 5 months and 11 days old. In October, 1894, he moved with his parents to Honey Creek, Hardin county, Iowa, Three years later the family moved to Iowa Falls, where in December, 1898, Joseph was converted. In 1901, at West Branch, Iowa, he made a full consecration of heart and life to God, in his father's study, and he has steadily shown by life and testimony a consecrated walk with his Master.

Josie, as he was familiarly called, was of a very sweet disposition and made fast friends wherever he went. By the very strength of his character he caught and held the affections of all. To become his acquaintance was to become a friend and remain one. In his school work as in every other duty he was conscientiously painstaking, winning the esteem of his teachers because of the quality of work done. His quiet, unassuming manners and the unselfishness of his nature made him a favorite at home and among his many friends. He held a birthright membership in the Friends' church and has ever been closely identified with the various departments of church work. In Sabbath school and Christian Endeavor he took a great interest, and his voice was often heard in prayer and testimony. His voice will no longer be heard among us, but his earthly preparation has fitted him to unite with the heavenly choir in singing the songs of the blest.

Funeral occurred at Hubbard, Tuesday. March 1, at 2 p.m. Rev. R. R. Newby, pastor of Friends' church at New Providence, Iowa, led the services, text, Psalms 116:15. There was a very full house and scarcely a dry eye there. Rev. Newby said he never spoke to a more responsive audience. Schools all adjourned and all business houses closed during the funeral.