Downie, Ruth (Williams) 1833-1903

WILLIAMS, DOWNIE

Posted By: Richard Williams (email)
Date: 1/30/2004 at 14:39:43

Ruth Williams was born in Perry, Wyoming county, New York in 1833. She came west in the early 60's, coming to Iowa she was married to John Downie of Elkader.

To this union were born five children, Lillie M.; Rose E.; Warren W.; Ray H. and John W. With the exception of Warren they were with her at the time of her death which occurred Tuesday morning, March 10th at 8 o'clock, as was also a stepson Henry Downie of Churdan, IA, who had been doing the part of a noble brother and son during the time of their affliction.

Five weeks ago, Mrs. Downie fell breaking her hip. This accident, considering her age, was persumed to be fatal, however under the skillful treatment of Dr. Patterson, the limb healed fast and would have given very little trouble. The immediate cause of death was lung and heart trouble, with which she had been afflicted for many years.

Mrs. Downie was known and loved by many, especially the young people, and there never was a girl who came within the circle of her influence who was not made better for the rest of her life. Her ideals were high and there is nothing which makes for the betterment of humanity which had not her highest approval and the virtues of the ideal woman of Proberbs may well be applied to her.

She stretcheth out her hand to the poor: yea, she reacheth forth her hand to the needy, and her children rise up and call her blessed, and we feel truly the world is poorer for the absence of it's friend. Funeral Thursday at 1 o'clock p.m. at the house.

-- source: local newspaper; March 11, 1903