John Lillis 1837-1913

LILLIS, FRANEY, KELLY

Posted By: Gary Lillis (email)
Date: 10/17/2010 at 17:43:02

Williamsburg Journal-Tribune
Williamsburg, Iowa
26 Jun 1913
Page 1

Death of John Lillis

Well Known Resident of Williamsburg Answers a Sudden Call.

Mr. John Lillis died at his home in the east part of town at an early hour Saturday morning. He had been as well as usual the day before and, in company with his wife, visited at the home of their son James, a short distance north of town. Near midnight he complained of not feeling well but in a short time appeared to improve and in this condition he continued until four o'clock when he suddenly expired. It is thought that his death was the result of an attack of neuralgia that affected the heart.
The funeral services were held at ten o'clock Monday in St. Mary's church and were attended by a large gathering. The high requiem Mass was celebrated by Father Glenn and at the conclusion of the benediction he preached an eloquent sermon in which was paid a well merited tribute to the life of the deceased.
The interment was in the family lot of St. Mary's cemetery and the pall bearers were T. H. Hanson, John Blythe, Thomas Griffin, Michael McCann, Bernard Donohoe and Fergus Flanagan.
John Lillis was born in County Clare, Ireland, seventy-five years ago. When he was one year old his parents emigrated to Canada and it was in this country he grew to man's estate. He came to Iowa County, Iowa, forty-five years ago and this place continued to be his home until death called him to his permanent abode. His residence was first south of Marengo, later near Williamsburg and seven years ago he moved to town where he lived in that retirement and content his years of industry so well earned.
Thirty-nine years ago he was united in marriage to Miss Anastasia Franey, of Davenport, and to this union were born seven children; three of these died when young and the living are Thomas and James, of this vicinity, Mrs. John Kelly of English township, and Miss Nellie of the home. These, together with the mother, remain to mourn the loss of a husband and parent as perfect as ever responded to the call of life's stern and exacting duty. John Lillis lived an exemplary life; his character was pure gold, and year after year he remained the same unassuming quiet citizen, faithful husband and father. Never a bad example could be charged to his speech or conduct and his concept of Christian charity always prevented him from spreading or peddling the idle report or vicious gossip. For his family he felt the deepest concern and no father had more reason to feel proud of his faithful home teaching. He was a devout member of the Catholic church and its precepts were always in his thoughts, speech and actions.
To the bereaved wife and children the sincerest sympathy is freely offered in this the hour of their common sorrow.