KELLY, Martha A. Ranshaw (1841-1918)

KELLY, RANSHAW, GILBERT, LAWHORN

Posted By: Deborah Horzen (email)
Date: 6/17/2004 at 11:55:13

Hancock County Democrat, Thurs. 7 Feb 1918.

Martha Ann Ranshaw was born in Jo Daviess County, Illinois January 29, 1841, died at her home in Garner, Iowa, January 31st 1918 at the age of 77 years and two days.

She was united in marriage to Absalom Kelly at Monroe, Wisconsin on July 25, 1861. To this union were born four children.

Her husband, three children, ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren survive her, one son James A. having preceeded her June 22 1884. Her two daughters Amy C. now Mrs. Peter Gilbert, and Ida M. now Mrs. Joseph Lawhorne both reside in Garner, and her only surviving son Absalom M. has lived in Decorah the past ten years.

Mrs. Kelly’s life has been a perfect example of unselfishness, a life lived entirely for the comfort of all those about her. Her home and family have been the one great interest for which her whole life has been faithfully devoted. Such a life has developed a character that was sweet, lovable and of stirling [sic] value.

Emerson’s quotation “In Order to have a friend you must be one,” has been thoroughly personified by her life. She has always been a faithful wife, and a loving and dutiful mother and those who knew her best loved her [m]ost.

The funeral was held at the home on Sabbath February 3rd at two pm. conducted by Rev. S.M. McConnell and Dr. George Baker. The music was furnished by Dr. and Mrs. George Baker, with Miss Eva J. Fell at the organ. The interment took place in Concord Cemetery.

The Kelly family and relatives and friends have the sympathy of the Gar--- [rest of line is illegible]

Card of Thanks
We sincerely thank all our kind friends and neighbors who helped and comforted us during mother’s illness an(d) our bereavement, and for the beautiful floral offerings.
Absalom Kelly and family