Saide Harmer 1853-1893

HARMER

Posted By: Sharon Elijah (email)
Date: 1/15/2020 at 08:41:00

July 14, 1893 - The Clarence Sun

Miss Saide E. Harmer was born in Philadelphia, Pa., April 3rd, 1853 and died in Clarence, Iowa, July 8th, 1893.

When four years of age she came with her parents to Iowa. She was converted in 1872 at Tede's Grove, Iowa, in meetings conducted by her father. Having united with the Methodist Episcopal church, she remained a faithful member until death. She was thoroughly a Christian. Until disabled by illness, she was active in church work and took great pleasure in the same. About four years ago, while in Philadelphia her health began to fail. She still continued at her work, however, for several months until at last she was obliged to abandon it and seek rest and recuperation. All efforts were in vain. She continued, gradually, to decline. She suffered especially from consumption of the muscles. Her sufferings were borne with patience. She had the spirit continued in the words of the ancient Pythagoras when he said: "with patience bear the lot to thee assigned; Nor think it chance nor murmur at the load, For know what man calls Fortune is from God."

Her calm resignation to the Providence of God was very marked. It might be well said her. "She sinks to the grave with unperceived decay, While resignation gently shapes the way; And, all her prospects brightening to the last, Her Heaven commences ere her world be past."

The memory of her life will linger for many years as a benediction to the community. The funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon in the M.E. church and conducted by Rev. Wm. Lease, of DeWitt, and Rev. W. B. Davis. There were many tributes of beautiful flowers which were the offerings of kind and loving friends.

The pall bearers who bore the remains to their last resting place were J. M. Erichson, J. L. Esher, W. H. Blair, Chas. Reed, Alex Grant, and Jay Fell.

Before Miss Harmer was taken with consumption of the muscles her health was good, and she was about five feet five inches in height. But by the peculiar effect of the disease, she wasted away and the muscles drawn together and her height was decreased until she measured about four feet. The flesh seemed to have almost withered upon the bones, and the muscles had gradually weakened until there was scarcely any strength remaining.