Gifford, George L. 1824 - 1896

GIFFORD, QUIGLEY

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 4/21/2022 at 22:23:29

Elkader Register, Fri., 11 Sept. 1896. Littleport column.

George L. Gifford died Monday from cancer of the stomach after a lingering illness. He was one of the pioneers of this place, largely known and respected by all.

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Elkader Register, Fri., 18 Sept. 1896.

George L. Gifford was born in New York state in 1824. Came with his parents when a boy to Clayton County, Iowa, in 1836, where he has resided nearly ever since, making his residence in Iowa over sixty years.

He was married to Clarinda Quigley in 1848, with whom he lived until the day of his death as a dutiful, providing and loving husband. He was the father of seven children, five of whom live to mourn the loss of a loving, kind and wise father.

As a citizen he was well known throughout the county, and known only to be honored and respected. He served his county as supervisor and was frequently chosen Justice of the Peace in his township.

No neighbor was ever more sympathizing or unselfish, always a peacemaker and true friend, his counsel was much sought and prized. In life he served as farmer, merchant and hotel keeper, but for the last twelve years has lived retired at the pleasant and comfortable home where he died. His sickness dates back about two years, but for several weeks past he has been confined to his bed suffering severely, till death came to his relief. His death was no surprise to himself and he died in the triumph of the Christian faith, trusting in the living God.

When a young man he joined the Free Baptist church and became an earnest member of this church in Edgewood nearly three years ago, loving the church as his spiritual home to the end. His death was peaceful and hopeful. His last words were; "God be merciful and save me." Shortly before his death he gazed out of the window upon the familiar scenes of nature and exclaimed, "Farewell, old world, Farewell." He died Monday Sept.7, 1896, in the 72nd year of his age, full of good works and good to all mankind.

Rest true husband, dear father, good grandpa, kind neighbor and loving friend. Rest in the kind care and keeping of the beneficient Creator. Rest till Jesus comes and bids thee rise from the earthly pillow. Rest till dawns the day of the regeneration. Rest till lights the horizon of an eternal day. Rest till the resurrection morn clothes thee with immortal bloom. Rest till the land of Paradise restored welcomes thee as a guest forever. Thy memory is blessed, but farewell till we meet in the better land where flowers bloom forever and sickness and sorrow never come.

God comfort and sustain the surviving wife and children and grandchildren and God keep us all to emulate the virtues of the departed one.

The funeral services were at his home in Littleport on the 9th inst. Elder Bixby preaching the sermon, assisted by Elder Beeler. R. J. Bixby had charge of the singing and was assisted by the choir from Edgewood. The procession to the cemetery and the services at the grave were in charge of the Free Masons from surrounding towns especially Elkader, where the deceased was a ember for many years. The remains rest in the Littleport cemetery till He, who in resurrection and life, shall appear.