Downey, Margereth (Hoden) 1831-1896

DOWNEY, HODEN, HOLDEN, NEEDHAM, URIELL

Posted By: A. Haught (email)
Date: 3/18/2015 at 11:50:08

Died at her home near Garnavillo on Wednesday April 1, 1896, after an illness of only a few hours Mrs. Margereth Hoden, wife of Michael Downey.

The news of her sudden death fell like a pall on her numerous friends, who had seen her in good health a few days prior to her death. On Sunday, she was in town and attended worship at St. Joseph’s, on Monday she walked to a neighbor where she spent the afternoon. On Tuesday she went into her garden, and dug up some radish roots which she prepared for the table.

She retired at her usual hour, complaining of a slight indisposition but nothing which could alarm her family. She slept quite well during the night and when her daughter offered to bring her breakfast to her on Wednesday morning she would not permit it, saying that she would arise soon.

An hour later her daughter again called on her, and found her much worse. Her sons were immediately summoned, and word was sent to her daughter, Mrs. Needham. She died however before medical aid could reach her.

Margereth Downey was born in the county of Tipperary, Ireland in 1831. She emigrated into this country when she was six years old, landing at New Orleans where she remained until she, at the age of 15 came to Clayton county.

She was married to Michel Downey Nov. 26, 1859 at the home of her uncle Mr. Michel Uriell.

Of the 7 children born to her, one, a girl, died at the age of two years. Thomas, one of her sons, is in California, where he holds an honorable position. James, William, John and Mamie are at home, and Mrs. Needham, lives on a farm near Elkport.

Her remains were buried at the Catholic cemetery on Friday. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Raedler.

Garnavillo Sentinel: April 9, 1896

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Added by Reid R. Johnson 4/14/2022:

Elkader Register, Fri., 03 Apr. 1896. Elkport column.

We are sorry to hear that Mrs. James* Downey, of Garnavillo twp., died Wednesday. The bereaved family have the sympathy of all in their sad affliction.

Note: should be Michael

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Elkader Register, Fri. 10 Apr. 1896. Garnavillo column.

DIED - At her home in this city on Wednesday, April 1st, 1896, at 8 a.m., Mrs. Mike Downey. Mrs. Downey was sick only a few hours when her soul passed into eternity. Funeral services were held at St. Joseph's church Friday.

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Note: Michael & Margaret Downey have a large gravestone in St. Joseph's Catholic cemetery, Garnavillo. Her inscription DOD 4/1/1896