Richey, Caroline R. - 1836-1917

RICHEY, VAN HOOK

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 6/29/2017 at 08:48:19

Pioneer Lady Called
Mrs. C. R. Richey answers the final summons
Aged Woman of Misfortune and Sorrow is Now at Rest With Loved Ones
Caroline R. Richey was born in the Province of Ontario, Canada, April 7, 1836, and died on the old homestead where she had lived continuously since 1866, on February 3, 1917; aged 80 years, nine months and 26 days. Her husband, Anderson Richey, died Dec. 14, 1901 aged 81 years, ten months and 24 days. Her surviving family are three sons: Marshall Van Hook, Frank and Clinton Richey. Also there are fifteen grandchildren of whom only six could be present at the last rites.
This aged mother's life has been unusually unfortunate and full of deep afflictions. Twice widowed, seven of her ten children have preceded her, and sadder than all for more than forty years her mind has been dethroned. During her normal years she was an active member of this community. Much can be said of her as a wife, mother, and neighbor. Being strong of purpose she was loyal in every relation that made for the betterment of all within her reach.
Through all the vicissitudes and misfortunes that have darkened the pathway of this most unfortunate woman's life she has held the most tender sympathy and regard of both old and young. She had a positive temperament and was deeply religious. Through the rifts of dark clouds that beset her mind could be caught the gleam of an ardent, pious nature. In every lucid moment there shone forth most strikingly the virtues of modesty, kindliness and refinement.
However terrific the tempest beat ab out and through her being there was something in her personality that appealed to and commanded attention and respect. To those who have known her, and especially to one who has known her well for half a century - known her in the high noon of her physical and mental powers and closely associated with her in the decline and infirmities of both mind and body - memory at its flood-tide can scarcely lay hold of the scene that her life unfolds.
In the deep stillness of the hour wat a comfort to know that during her last days the mists and clouds left her comparatively lucid and composed.
Grandma Richey will be greatly missed. We'll no longer see her standing in the door yard with wondering, wondering eyes, seemingly trying to pierce the mysteries that lay hidden, among the hills beyond the river to the south. We will never again see her bent form passing to and fro on the public highways in her daily rounds. Her strenuous, tempestuous race is run. In that haven where no storms ever dome, amid the bright sunshine of her eternal home this distressed soul must rest.
The funeral services were held at her old home and were solemn and impressive. Rev. Wikoff's address was so appropriate and tender, and with the sweet songs the occasion will long be remembered as a befitting close to Mrs. Richey's eventful life.
Source: Colfax Clipper; February 8, 1917