Preston, Donna 1872 - 1892

PRESTON

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 2/13/2023 at 09:31:43

Elkader Register, Thur., 02 June 1892.

On Thursday afternoon, May 26th, 1892, without a struggle, and conscious to the last, Donna, the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Preston, sank peacefully to rest for this life. While not entirely unexpected, the cross laid upon her parents and friends was none the less hard to bear.

Donna was born at Elkader, Iowa, Nov. 01st, 1872, making her age at the time of her death, 19 years, 6 months and 25 days. She began school at an early age and finished the course, graduating May 30th, 1890. Soon after she commenced teaching, and had taught one term and started another, when she was taken ill with la grippe and terminating in lung trouble which baffled medical skill. She was taken to Denver, Col., with the hope that the bracing air of that wonderful climate might benefit her, but after staying there something over seven months and receiving no permanent help, she was brought back to cheer and comfort the old home for a few short weeks ere she left it for the brighter mansion above. Donna was a true Christian, ever zealous over working for her Saviour, having been a constant attendant of the Sabbath school as scholar and teacher. In September, 1888, she united with the Methodist Episcopal church of this place, and was strong in her faith and love for God.

Donna has lived nineteen years of a lovely loving life, and said "she was not afraid to die," and with fair promise of her youth cut off she has passed over the river to the bright beyond where loud peans will welcome her to a full fruition of that early promise.

The funeral services were held at 4 p.m., Saturday, from the family residence, conducted by Rev. J. D. Perry. A large concourse of friends were present, including her graduating and Sabbath school classes, also the Alumni of the High School. The floral tributes of love for the dear departed were many and of beautiful design. Our entire community sympathize and mourn with the afflicted family.