Duff, Isabella M. (Probert) 1830-1904

DUFF, PROBERT, MCKEEN

Posted By: S. Ferrall - IAGenWeb volunteer
Date: 4/5/2019 at 21:02:58

Mrs. Robert Duff, who was a patient sufferer for weeks, quietly passed from earthly scenes Tuesday afternoon, April 5th, 1904, at her home in Highland township.

Isabella Mowbry Probert was born in Mairkirk, Ayreshire, Scotland, Oct. 20th, 1830. In the summer of 1850 she came to America and made her home in Pittsburg, Pa., at which place two years later, Jan. 31st, 1852, she was united in marriage to Robert Duff. From Pennsylvania they came to Clayton county, Iowa, where they have ever since made their home.

To them were born ten children, eight of whom live to mourn the loss of a beloved mother. She is survived by her husband, also two brothers and two sisters.

Death had no terror for Mrs. Duff, for her life had been so pure and blameless as to almost rob it or its sting. She was ready to go. Her work was done and well done. She has lived a live of devotion and earnest Christian work. Her life won the love of all who knew her by the power of her Christian character. Hers was a life that had in it a depth and beauty, an influence and purpose that mere words can tell very little about. And many outside her family circle will rise up and call her blessed for the help she has given in times of need and for the words she has spoken in hours of sorrow.

The funeral service was held at her home at ten o'clock Thursday morning, April 7th. The esteem in which Mrs. Duff was held was shown by the large number who gathered to pay their final tribute to the one they loved in life. The service was conducted by a son-in-law of the deceased, Rev. Benj. McKeen, of Milford, Iowa, who read the ninetieth Psalm, and also a portion of the fourth chapter of First Thessalonians. After a reading of a portion of scripture and the offering of a prayer at the grave the casket was lowered into its final resting place by R.W. Duff, J.P. Duff, John Probert, William Probert, Richard Probert and J.C. Probert, all nephews of the one who had departed.

In the golden bye and bye, we shall meet again
All the friends who have gone before,
There our friendship we'll renew on you Eden plain.
And be blest and happy evermore.

~Elkader Register, Thursday, April 14, 1904