George Gresham (1908)

GRESHAM, GOODSON, WHITE

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler, Volunteer (email)
Date: 3/20/2014 at 17:23:23

Winterset Madisonian – February 6, 1908
Pg 1

LEE TWP LOSES OLDEST CITIZEN

Uncle George Gresham Answers the Final Summons. Was Born November 3, 1818

Uncle George Gresham as he was familiarly known, passed away at his home in Lee township on Saturday, February 1st, aged 89 years, 2 months and 28 days. The deceased was born on a farm near Louisville, Harrison county, Indiana. Here he spent his boyhood days and it was here that was woven into his life a deep love for the soil—a vocation that he honored and to which he devoted his entire life. On November 11, 1841, he was united in marriage to Nancy E. Goodson. To them were born four children, Jacob M., who died May 6, 1857, Mary E., who died April 23, 1849, David W., who died April 8, 1891, and John S., who resides in Omaha.

In 1847 he left his old home and with wife located in Boone township, Dallas county, Iowa where he was bereft of his wife June 15, 1877. He was married to Salina C. White, December 17, 1877. To this union were born two sons, Charles E., who died Nov. 28, 1897 and Wm. P. who resides in Lee township. In 1897 he lost his home by fire and this together with ill health caused him to dispose of the old homestead which he did and settled in Lee township this county which remained his home until death. His decline in health extended over a period of five years. His final illness was brought on by a severe cold and at the end of two weeks he peacefully passed over to the better land.

In his death Lee township loses one of its best citizens. In early life he chose to live the Christ life and his daily life was consistent with his profession. He was a wise counselor to the wayward and a friend always to the poor and needy. He was a charter member of the M.E. church at Boone township.

Funeral services were held from the M.E. church at Booneville, on Monday afternoon and interment made in the cemetery near by. Rev. Mr. Eaton of the M.E. church assisted by Rev. E. W. Curtis, of U.B. church conducting the services. His pall bearers were chosen from his old friends and neighbors: Mathew Flynn, Will Lane, Walter Flynn, Goodson Newton Lane and Thomas Flynn.