Cummings, Thomas 1818 - 1892

CUMMINGS, DONAHUE, MAHONEY

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 2/10/2023 at 16:32:52

Elkader Register, Thur., 14 Apr. 1892.

After a long sickness and much suffering, extending over many months, Thomas Cummings closed his eyes to the busy scenes of life and sank into "the sleep that knows no waking" at about 9 o'clock last Sunday morning. His death while not unexpected, was nevertheless a great shock to his numerous friends.

Deceased was born in Roscommon county, Clooncan parish, Ireland, in the month of June, 1818, and was therefore near 74 years of age at the time of his death. He emigrated from Ireland in 1847, and first located in Boston, Mass., where for seven years he was employed in the East Boston roller mills. In 1853 he was married at Chelsea, Mass., to Miss Ann Donahue, and three years later came to Iowa, locating in Read twp., where he followed the life of a farmer until 1865, when he removed to Elkader, where he has resided continuously since that time. His first wife died at this place in 1878, and in the same year he was married to Mrs. Mahoney, of Tipton, Iowa, who survives him.

During all the years of his residence in Clayton County Mr. Cummings was never known to speak harshly of any person; he attended strictly to his own business and never meddled with the affairs of others, a trait of character which caused him to be highly esteemed by all who enjoyed his acquaintance. As was remarked by one who has lived near and had dealings with deceased for a period of over a quarter of a century: "he was a good neighbor and friend, ready to help those in need at all times to the extent of his abilty."

The funeral took place on Tuesday from the Catholic church, Rev. J. F. Reilly officiating, and was largely attended by friends of the deceased, among them being some whose acquaintance dated back to the time when they worked together in Boston.

May he rest in peace.